The Food and Agriculture Organization’s Somalia Water and Land Information Management (FAO-SWALIM) unit has released its latest rainfall update for Somalia, highlighting a complex weather outlook across different regions of the country.

According to the report, moderate rains are expected to continue in central and southern Somalia, offering a timely boost to ongoing Gu season agricultural activities. These rains are likely to support crop growth and replenish pasture, raising hopes for a successful harvest if the rainfall is sustained over the coming weeks.

However, the update also carries serious warnings. FAO-SWALIM noted that flooding is expected to persist downstream of Jowhar, where river levels remain dangerously high. Communities in these low-lying areas are advised to stay alert and prepare for potential displacement or crop damage.

In stark contrast, Awdal and Puntland (PL) regions are facing drought conditions. FAO-SWALIM has raised concerns about heat stress and worsening water shortages, which could severely impact both livelihoods and livestock in these areas if relief does not arrive soon.

This dual threat of flood and drought underscores the urgent need for adaptive planning and coordinated response efforts to protect vulnerable communities and secure food production in Somalia.