The Puntland Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management and the Water and Land Information Management Center have firmly rejected claims about upcoming severe storms.

According to a joint statement from both agencies, warning messages being shared on social media that claim to come from the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA) are not genuine.

The statement explained that weather warnings predicting heavy rainfall and cyclones in Puntland between May 12 and 17, 2026, were determined to be unofficial and unreliable after a technical assessment.

Officials expressed concern about the spread of baseless information, emphasizing that unverified claims without proper sources can cause unnecessary public anxiety and social disruption.

Puntland’s media outlets and residents are advised to exercise caution and refrain from sharing unconfirmed reports that might compromise public order and safety.

The Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management stressed that all climate warnings and emergency updates should only come from authorized official sources.

The statement noted that accurate weather alerts are available on the official websites of the Ministry and the Center, as well as their verified social media accounts.

Additionally, the public was directed to state-owned media and official government partner platforms as the only trustworthy sources for disaster-related information in Puntland.

The Ministry and the Center reaffirmed their commitment to continuously monitor weather conditions and deliver precise information to the public promptly.

In response to these events, Puntland reaffirmed that its monitoring agencies stand prepared to address actual emergencies, with exact technical coordination being essential for protecting lives and property.

Precise weather forecasting represents not just a technical issue but a national and ethical obligation requiring strict compliance with scientific and institutional standards. Transparent dialogue between government and citizens acts as protection against misinformation that could hinder effective responses during genuine crises, ensuring a secure environment based on verified information and documented evidence.