Eight people dead due to flooding in Hiran region

GOOBJOOG NEWS | BALADWEYNE: At least eight people have died, several others displaced after floods swept over villages at Baladweyne in Hiran region, central Somalia.

According to local authorities, the floods were caused by the River Shabelle which burst its banks following the heavy downpour experienced in the area.

Baladweyne district commissioner Omar Osman Alasow said that the floods have affected Koshin, Howlwadaag, Bundaweyn, and Xaawo Taako neighborhoods, and that the death toll could rise as the water levels continue to increase.

“We have confirmed the death of eight people so far, but we fear that more people might have drowned or been swept away by the floods. We are still assessing the situation and trying to reach the affected areas,” he said.

The district administration, in collaboration with the federal government and humanitarian agencies, is providing emergency assistance to the displaced people, such as food, water, shelter, and health services.

He appealed for more support from the international community to help the flood victims, who are facing the risk of waterborne diseases, malnutrition, and insecurity.