The Somali Red Crescent Society and ICRC Prepare for El Niño Flooding

The Somali Red Crescent Society (SRCS), with support from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), has begun preparations and training aimed at responding to anticipated floods that may occur in Somalia during the El Niño weather conditions.

This preparation has specifically focused on the Jubba and Shabelle rivers, which are among the areas that regularly experience flooding during the rainy seasons.

SRCS has trained 72 individuals, including 60 volunteers from the local community.

The training was conducted in some of the areas most affected by flooding, including Baardheere, Jowhar, Beledweyne, and Kismaayo.

The training included theoretical lessons and practical training related to boat operations, so that volunteers acquire the skills needed for emergency response.

During the training in the city of Jowhar and along the Shabelle River, participants learned techniques including boat driving, maneuvering, and controlled boat towing.

They were also taught communication methods used in situations where boat engines create noise, with an emphasis on using hand signals.

The training also instructed participants on how to properly install the boat engine, ensuring safety before the boat is launched, and preparing personnel and emergency equipment.

One of the key lessons was the use of the safety rope for the engine, which can be pulled in an emergency to quickly shut down the engine, crucial for the safety of the personnel and those in need of assistance.

SRCS has stated that these trainings are part of efforts to strengthen flood response capacity, especially as previous floods in Somalia have highlighted the importance of boat teams and local volunteers.

In 2023, the Red Crescent boat teams played a role in the rescue operations for those affected by the floods, and there is now a desire to build on those experiences with further training and new preparedness.

Overall, the 72 individuals who participated in the training have been prepared, while SRCS has nine boats deployed to areas where floods frequently occur.

These measures are intended to enable the community to respond quickly in the event of floods arising from El Niño conditions and upcoming rains.

The preparedness of the Red Crescent and ICRC comes at a time when Somalia faces threats related to floods, droughts, and changing climate conditions, which increases the need for relief agencies to be better prepared for emergencies.