At least 20 killed by floods in Gedo region

GOOBJOOG NEWS|GEDO: At least 20 people have been killed in flash floods in Bardhere district in Gedo region as heavy rains pound the region after a long dry spell.

The UN humanitarian agency OCHA said over ten people were killed and 9 others were swept away by floods as they tried to cross a stream.  Baardheere, Wanle Wayne, Luuq and Doolow districts in Gedo region are most affected, the UN body said.

OCHA said about 8000 people in two IDP camps have been affected by the floods noting several houses and latrines were destroyed. OCHA said the increased rains in the Ethiopian highlands could result in the Juba river breaking its bank, particularly in Baardheere Buaale, Saakow and Jilib, which could lead to flash floods and displacement.

Other displacements and destruction of property have been recorded in Baidoa in South West state and alam town, Burtinle District in Nugaal Region, Puntland.