Bosaso (WDN)— Puntland authorities are sounding the alarm over a looming drought following warnings from the Puntland Land and Water Data Agency (IMAC), which announced that the region is experiencing delayed and below-average spring rainfall, a troubling sign for the year ahead.

The much-anticipated Gu’ rains, which usually begin in late March and play a crucial role in replenishing water sources and supporting agricultural and pastoral livelihoods, have yet to arrive. IMAC now predicts the rains may begin after April 10—but warns they will be “slightly lower than the average rainfall received in previous years.”

“This delay and reduction in rainfall is a red flag,” the IMAC report stated. “We are on the cusp of a drought, and water shortages are imminent. This will significantly impact the lives and livelihoods of Puntland’s people, especially pastoralists who rely heavily on rain-fed grazing.”

Livestock is the economic backbone for most Puntlanders, and the delay in rains could devastate herds, which are already under pressure from recurring droughts in previous years. A sharp decline in pasture quality and water availability could lead to mass livestock losses, food insecurity, and increased displacement, especially in rural communities.

IMAC is urging citizens to take immediate precautionary measures:

• Conserve water
• Store non-perishable food
• Acquire livestock fodder in advance
• Reduce unnecessary travel in search of water

“The time to act is now. We call on both the local population and Puntland authorities to prepare for the possibility of a prolonged dry season,” the agency warned.

Meanwhile, Puntland’s Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs is reportedly preparing a drought response plan, including collaboration with local NGOs and international partners. However, with limited resources and rising needs, aid officials are calling on the federal and international community to step in early.

Environmental analysts say Puntland is not alone. Much of the Horn of Africa is experiencing erratic weather patterns driven by climate change, and vulnerable communities are struggling to adapt.

As Puntland braces for what could become a severe humanitarian crisis, all eyes are now on the skies—and the urgent need for coordinated drought preparedness on the ground.

WardheerNews