BAIDOA, Somalia — 5 October 2026 — As concerns grow over potential El Niño-related flooding in Somalia, the Somali Red Crescent Society (SRCS) is strengthening its emergency response capacity ahead of possible river flooding along the Juba and Shabelle rivers.
According to information provided to Baidoa Online by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the SRCS is training 72 participants, including 60 local community volunteers, to prepare for potential flood emergencies.
Supported by the ICRC, the practical training is designed to equip participants with the skills required to respond quickly and safely to communities affected by flooding.
Training sessions are being conducted in several flood-prone locations, including Bardere, Jowhar, Beletweyne and Kismayo. The programme combines classroom-based instruction with hands-on exercises to ensure emergency teams are prepared to act effectively should flooding occur.
The SRCS gained valuable experience during the severe flooding that affected Somalia in 2023, when its boat rescue teams played a significant role in evacuating and assisting people trapped by rising floodwaters.
The latest preparations aim to build on that experience and strengthen the ability of local volunteers and emergency teams to respond to future disasters.
The ICRC said the training is part of ongoing efforts to improve community preparedness and ensure that responders in some of Somalia’s most flood-prone areas are ready to provide assistance when needed.
