Mogadishu(Mogadishu24)-At least 42 people have died, and more than 600,000 have been affected after torrential rains hit major parts of the country, resulting in severe flooding, according to the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA).

“We have analyzed the flood situation in the country since early November, resulting in severe flooding and huge damages. As of now, 42 people have been confirmed dead, most of whom are from Jubaland, Southwest, and Hirshabelle States. The floods have displaced more than 600,000 people, with over a million individuals directly affected. The casualty count may increase,” reads SoDMA’s statement.

Humanitarian agencies and authorities have intensified their assistance efforts, reaching at least 679,400 people across Somalia with provisions such as water, sanitation, food, cash, health, and other forms of aid.

“SoDMA, in collaboration with its international partners and other federal government agencies, has provided 28 boats across 7 locations in Jubaland, particularly in Gedo, and Hirshabelle (Jowhar and Beledweyne). Additionally, we have supplied food items to 750 families. In Baidoa, we have dispatched two planes, each carrying commodities for 400 families,” the statement added.

The agency reaffirmed its commitment to providing humanitarian support and taking measures to assist the affected people.

Last week, the Federal Government of Somalia declared a ‘National Emergency Situation’ due to the heavy impacts of the rains on the people.

Somalia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Salah Ahmed Jamaa, stressed that the situation could deteriorate further, especially considering the forecasts and warnings of additional rainfall and potential flooding.