As the rainy season approaches in Djibouti, authorities are strengthening their flood prevention and management measures to minimize risks to populations and infrastructure. The city's prefect, Abdi Hassan Ahmed, outlined the preparations, which include coordination meetings, identification of vulnerable areas, and public awareness campaigns. The goal is to reduce the impact of potential floods and ensure a swift response to emergencies. With forecasts predicting heavy rainfall between October and December, the authorities are taking a proactive approach to mitigate the effects of the impending rainy season.
The authorities have conducted several preparatory meetings, bringing together key stakeholders, including the Prefecture, Mairie de Djibouti, Protection civile, and other relevant departments. These meetings have enabled the identification of high-risk areas, reinforcement of coordination among responders, and definition of preventive measures and intervention strategies. The Prefecture is working closely with the Mairie, Protection civile, and other institutions to ensure a unified response to potential floods. This collaborative approach aims to optimize resource allocation and response efforts.
The Préfecture de Djibouti-Ville has identified areas prone to flooding, including sectors in the Ambouli plain and certain quartiers in Boulaos and Balbala. Specifically, quartiers 1 to 7 bis, Ambouli, Djebel, Einguela, Arhiba, Saoudi, Maka Moukarama, Wadajir, Cité du Stade, and Cité Progrès are considered vulnerable. Additionally, areas like Balbala Ancien are at risk of flash floods due to drainage issues. The authorities are prioritizing these areas for targeted interventions and public awareness campaigns.
To enhance preparedness, the authorities are reinforcing meteorological surveillance and alert systems, identifying sensitive points, and clearing and maintaining water evacuation networks. The Protection civile is playing a key role in disaster prevention and management, with a specific mission to organize relief efforts under the ORSEC plan. Public awareness campaigns are being conducted to educate residents in high-risk areas about the necessary precautions to take during heavy rainfall.
Effective coordination among authorities, responders, and stakeholders is crucial in managing flood risks. The Préfecture de Djibouti-Ville is working closely with the Mairie, Protection civile, and other institutions to share information, anticipate needs, and define clear responsibilities for each responder. The national disaster management plan, including the ORSEC plan, provides a framework for responding to emergencies. A crisis cell has been activated to monitor the situation, coordinate responses, and prepare interventions.
To test the effectiveness of their disaster response plans, the authorities are conducting exercises and simulations, in collaboration with technical and financial partners. These exercises aim to ensure that each service understands its role, responsibilities, and procedures in the event of a major flood. By reinforcing this aspect, the authorities can guarantee efficient coordination among responders when it is needed most.
The prefect has urged residents in vulnerable quartiers to remain vigilant and follow weather forecasts and official messages. In the event of heavy rainfall, residents are advised to avoid crossing flooded areas on foot or by vehicle and not to attempt to cross oueds or areas with strong currents. Residents are also encouraged to keep essential documents and belongings safe and to follow evacuation instructions from authorities. Parents are reminded to be particularly cautious with children and not to let them approach flooded areas or watercourses.
Key points
- Authorities in Djibouti are strengthening flood prevention measures ahead of the October-December rainy season.
- High-risk areas have been identified, and targeted interventions and public awareness campaigns are being implemented.
- Effective coordination among authorities, responders, and stakeholders is crucial in managing flood risks.
