Garowe (Dawan Africa) — A recent report from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), published on May 17, 2025, revealed that heavy rains on June 13, 2025, triggered severe flooding in Garowe, displacing over 3,600 people from the Shabeelle refugee camps, some of the oldest camps in the city. The floods caused significant damage to essential infrastructure, including the destruction of more than 400 homes. Many of the displaced individuals were forced to seek refuge in open areas that lack basic services such as food, clean water, and sanitation.
As displaced individuals flee to nearby neighborhoods such as Hodon, Waabari, and Hanti-Wadaag, they are facing severe health risks due to the lack of basic infrastructure and the threat of waterborne diseases. Vulnerable groups, including women, children, the elderly, persons with disabilities, and those with chronic illnesses, are particularly affected by this crisis.
"Access to temporary housing is crucial in reducing the risks faced by displaced people. The destruction of homes and the resulting economic losses have caused significant mental stress, and there is an urgent need for both medical and psychological support," stated the UNHCR report.
Garowe, the capital city of Puntland, is home to several refugee camps. According to the latest data from May 2023, Garowe hosts 25 refugee camps, sheltering more than 55,675 people.
This recent disaster underscores the increasing impact of climate change in Somalia, with recurring floods and droughts affecting various regions of the country. The UNHCR has called for increased funding to build climate-resilient infrastructure and improve disaster preparedness, especially in flood-prone regions like Garowe.