Somalia Water Crisis: March 2025 WASH Cluster Drought Update

Somalia is battling a severe water crisis due to failed rainy seasons, with forecasts indicating below-average rainfall for the upcoming Gu season. Over 3 million people are currently facing water shortages, a figure that may increase depending on rainfall and intervention effectiveness. Certain regions are at high risk of intensified drought, affecting agriculture and livestock communities.

Somalia is currently enduring a critical water crisis fueled by consecutive failed rainy seasons. The forecast for the forthcoming Gu season (April to June 2025) indicates below-average rainfall, compounding the challenges faced by the nation. The Deyr 2024 rains were erratic and poorly distributed, particularly affecting states like Galmudug, Hirshabelle, South-West, Jubaland, and Puntland, leading to a drastic decrease in precipitation levels.

Over 3 million individuals are presently experiencing acute water shortages, a scenario likely to worsen depending on the performance of the Gu rains and the effectiveness of WASH humanitarian efforts. The combination of anticipated below-average rainfall, along with rising temperatures, is expected to exacerbate drought conditions, placing additional strain on water resources.

Certain regions, including Gedo, Hiraan, Middle Shabelle, Bakool, Bay, and inland Galguduud and Mudug, are projected to suffer from below-average rainfall, which could further intensify water scarcity, diminish agricultural productivity, and increase pressures on communities reliant on livestock.

Efforts to assess and improve WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) conditions are essential, given the dire circumstances described. The situation underscores the necessity for collective humanitarian interventions to facilitate access to water and ensure food security amid ongoing drought challenges.

In conclusion, Somalia is facing a critical water crisis exacerbated by erratic rainfall patterns and rising temperature concerns. With over 3 million individuals suffering from acute water shortages, urgent humanitarian interventions in WASH are required to mitigate the situation. The projected climatic conditions pose further threats to agricultural productivity and livestock-dependent communities, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to address these pressing challenges.

Original Source: reliefweb.int