Hargeisa (SLpost)- Somaliland’s Ministry of Water Development has urged government institutions and local authorities to strengthen preparedness for the potential impacts of El Niño, warning of risks associated with flooding, drought and damage to the country’s water infrastructure.
In an official directive dated October 17, 2026, the ministry called on relevant government departments, regional administrations and water authorities to take proactive measures to reduce the potential effects of climate-related hazards on communities, livelihoods and essential water facilities.
The ministry said its recommendations were informed by climate forecasts and risk assessments pointing to the possibility of El Niño-related weather impacts, including heavy rainfall, flooding and drought. It stressed the importance of early action to minimise damage to water supply systems, protect communities and strengthen the resilience of water infrastructure.
Four Key Measures to Reduce Climate Risks
The ministry outlined four priority areas for preparedness and risk reduction.
- Strengthening water infrastructure
The ministry called for the protection and reinforcement of water infrastructure, including reservoirs, dams and other water facilities. It also emphasised the need to improve drainage systems and take preventive measures against potential flood damage.
- Improving flood preparedness and response
Regional and district authorities were urged to identify areas at risk of flooding and prepare appropriate response measures. The ministry highlighted the importance of assessing vulnerable locations, preparing emergency water supplies and ensuring that response arrangements are in place to protect communities if flooding occurs.
- Protecting communities and public health
The directive stressed the need to safeguard lives and livelihoods by prioritising vulnerable communities and protecting water sources from contamination. The ministry also called for greater attention to the safety of water supplies, public health and the broader environmental risks associated with extreme weather.
- Strengthening inter-agency coordination
The ministry urged its departments, regional water authorities and other relevant government institutions to work closely with local administrations and emergency-response bodies. It said coordinated planning and information-sharing would be essential to addressing climate risks and implementing the recommended preparedness measures.
Early Action Critical to Protecting Water Security
The ministry’s warning highlights the importance of preparedness in a country where water availability and access to reliable water infrastructure are central to community resilience and livelihoods.
Flooding can damage dams, reservoirs, water distribution networks and other essential facilities, while drought can place additional pressure on already limited water resources. Heavy rainfall may also contaminate water sources, increasing risks to public health and disrupting access to safe drinking water.
By urging government institutions to strengthen infrastructure, improve emergency planning and coordinate their responses, the ministry is seeking to reduce potential losses and improve the country’s ability to withstand climate-related emergencies.
The directive was signed by Abdishakur Ismail Hussien, the Director General of the Ministry of Water Development.
The ministry’s recommendations place particular emphasis on preventive action rather than waiting until climate-related hazards cause significant damage.
The warning follows earlier alerts issued by Somaliland government in October over the risk of heavy rainfall and flash flooding. A forecast released by the Somaliland Information Management Center, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agricultural Development and with technical support from FAO SWALIM, projected heavy to very heavy rainfall in parts of Borama, Gabiley, Hargeisa, Sheikh and Burao during October 7-13. Separately, the IMC’s October 4 climate advisory warned that strengthening El Niño conditions could intensify rainfall during the October–December Deyr season, increasing the potential for flooding, water contamination, infrastructure damage and disruption to transport. While the expected rains could improve water supplies and pasture conditions, the warnings underscore the importance of protecting dams, reservoirs and other water facilities, strengthening early-warning systems and coordinating emergency preparedness before severe weather strikes.
