Flood risks to continue across East Africa

Friday, November 1, 2019 - 08:55

Tropical storm expected to bring strong winds and light rains to Puntland and Somaliland 
Nairobi, 2019: A tropical storm named KYARR has been developing in the northern Indian Ocean and is expected to reach Puntland and Somaliland in 4 to 5 days. The affected areas will experience strong winds and light rains. The Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) is in one of its strongest positive states since 2006. In this state, warm moist air flows westwards inland increasing the likelihood of higher rainfall over East African countries. Although it is difficult to attribute the source of any floods or other weather impacts to a single cause, the heavy rains currently experienced in the region are likely associated with this positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) state. These heavy rains and flooding have already led to losses in property and livelihoods in parts of Ethiopia, Somalia, South Sudan, and Kenya. “According to our monthly and seasonal forecasts, higher than usual rains are expected to persist throughout November and December. We encourage all stakeholders to take the necessary measures to mitigate the potential impacts” says Abubakr Salih Babiker, Climate Scientist at ICPAC.  
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1fogDhLKafRh6VJYCDmRKlUgId1B725KAptcOk_lu000/edit
https://mailchi.mp/3edeef40130c/climate-outlook-forum-bulletin-impacts-and-sectoral-advisories-345773