Highlights
During the month of April there was a significant increase of rainfall across the country, with moderate to heavy rains received in most regions. However, most of the livelihoods in Bari and Awdal in the North remained dry. Notable above average rains were observed in Buhoodle (133mm), Caynabo (117mm),
Lasaanod (105mm), Eyl (110mm) and Galckayo (113mm) in the North, while all southern rain gauge stations recorded above average rains, except in Buale (Middle Juba) and Jamame (Lower Juba) towns, where the recorded rainfall was below the long-term average (LTA) respectively (Map 1 and Table 1). The enhanced rains in upper reaches of Shabelle River resulted in river flooding in Mahaday/ Jowhar districts of Middle Shabelle region, resulting in inundation of croplands and population displacement. Heavy rains led to flash floods in Lower Shabelle (Wanlaweyn and Sablale) and Bay (Burhakaba). However, according to SWALIM Flood Watch issued on 28th April 2015, observed river levels in the month of April in Juba and Shabelle remained below the high flood risk level.
Satellite-derived Rainfall Estimates (TAMSATRFE) confirm that Gu seasonal rains have peaked in most of the country (Maps 2-5). Although the RFE Anomaly on map 9 shows depressed rains in parts of Awdal, W. Galgeed and north part of Sanaag. FSNAU field reports indicate average rains in Sanaag,. Satellite-derived Normalized Difference Vegetation Index derived from the E-Modis shows pronounced increase of vegetation vigor in April due to overall improved rains. However, vegetation in small to large areas of Middle Shabelle, Middle Juba, Gedo and coastal areas of the southern regions have not yet fully recovered from the impact of recent Jilaal (December – March) dry weather conditions. Additionally, in Awdal (Northwest Agropastoral and East Golis) the NDVI shows depressed vegetation (Maps 6-8 and 10).
March and April Gu rains in most parts of the country have profoundly improved pasture and browse conditions and replenished surface water catchments, thereby effectively reducing the water shortages experienced during Jilaal. Consequently, the livestock body conditions have improved and normal livestock migration is reported in most pastoral areas. The exception is East Golis pastoral livelihood in the North from where livestock out-migrated to Nugal valley of Sool in search of better pasture. Crops of farmers who planted early (dry planting) have germinated, whereas some farmers have already started weeding activities; however, planting continued in April as well, especially in rainfed areas.