MOGADISHU: The Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA) has issued an urgent weather warning for residents in the Bari and Nugaal regions of Puntland, alerting communities to a powerful thunderstorm expected to affect several coastal and inland districts between May 12 and May 17, 2026. The agency identified Hafuun, Eyl, Dangoroyo, Bandarbayla, Qardho, and Garowe as areas likely to experience severe conditions.
According to SoDMA, the storm may bring heavy and torrential rainfall, strong winds, intense lightning and thunder, high tides, and possible flash floods. Authorities also cautioned that the weather could disrupt maritime navigation and fishing activities along the coast. The agency has been actively monitoring rainfall patterns across the country, warning that the Gu rainy season, which runs from April to June, brings heightened risks of flooding in low-lying areas and along riverbanks.
SoDMA urged residents to take precautionary measures. It advised communities to avoid sea travel and fishing during the warning period, secure small boats and fishing equipment, and stay away from flood-prone areas and riverbanks. The agency further encouraged residents to protect children and vulnerable people from dangerous locations, avoid weak structures and tall trees during strong winds, and remain prepared for possible emergency evacuations.
“The public is urged to exercise heightened vigilance and caution during this warning period,” SoDMA said, adding that it is closely monitoring the situation and will continue providing updates if conditions worsen. The agency called on residents to closely follow official updates from SoDMA and the Puntland administration throughout the forecast period. The agency has been investing in technology-driven early warning systems to ensure that alerts reach communities through mobile messaging, social media, community radio, and local networks.
The warning comes as parts of Somalia are already experiencing flooding linked to the ongoing Gu rainy season. According to the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO), recent heavy rains and flash floods have displaced hundreds of families across several regions, including Middle Shabelle, Togdheer, and Galgaduud. In Middle Shabelle, the Shabelle River overflowed, inundating Shinile Village. Flooding in Jowhar displaced around 400 households. In Togdheer, flash floods in Buuhoodle displaced over 250 families, injured 25 people, and killed two. In Galgaduud, flash floods in Baraag Abdille affected 500 pastoralist families and killed 6,000 livestock.
SoDMA has confirmed that emergency teams are on high alert to track any field changes in weather conditions and provide necessary support to affected populations. Shelter centers and urgent evacuation plans are reportedly ready should the field situation worsen. The agency called on all citizens to exercise the highest levels of caution and cooperate with rescue teams, emphasizing that public safety is a shared responsibility requiring full compliance with official instructions.
