Somalia cyclone guide¶
The Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA) is the federal government organisation in charge of responding to disasters, and runs a National Emergency Operations Centre. Puntland, in the north east where cyclones from the Arabian Sea can arrive, has its own Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management. For cyclone forecasts, follow the India Meteorological Department, the regional forecast centre for the north Indian Ocean, and local announcements. Somalia is on this one page.
Checked on October 10, 2026
Every phone number and web address on this page was checked against official sources on that date. Details can change, especially during a storm. Always follow instructions from the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA). Emergency numbers vary by area. The Somali Disaster Management Agency lists 449 as the national emergency number and 991 for the Somali Police.
What to know in Somalia¶
- Puntland's Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management says it coordinates rapid response to cyclones, floods, drought, and other disasters across Puntland.
- SoDMA says its National Emergency Operations Centre works to strengthen the capacity of the Somali Government and federal member states to manage, coordinate, and respond to natural disasters.
Emergency and information numbers¶
| Service | Number | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| National emergency | 449 | As SoDMA's home page lists it. SoDMA says relevant authorities will answer. Service may vary by area. |
| Somali Police | 991 | As SoDMA's home page lists it. Service may vary by area. |
| SoDMA office, Mogadishu | +252-61-5444-400 | Office line at Airport Road, Wadajir. Not for emergencies. |
National resources¶
- Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA): The federal disaster agency, with news, forecasts, and its National Emergency Operations Centre. Website.
- Puntland Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management: Puntland's disaster ministry, in Garowe, with an Emergency Center page. Website.
For state agencies across the country, see the official sources page.
Evacuation centers¶
Open only when announced
Evacuation centers open only when officials announce them, and not every center opens for every storm. Check the official list of open centers before you leave home. Bring your own bedding, food, water, and medicines.
No standing shelter list was confirmed for this page. Follow SoDMA, the Puntland ministry, and local authorities for where to go.
Radio, TV and weather¶
Keep a battery or hand crank radio. When power and cell service fail, radio is often the only way to hear official updates.
Official forecasts¶
- India Meteorological Department, Regional Specialised Meteorological Centre New Delhi: The regional forecast centre for cyclones in the North Indian Ocean. Use it as a second source after the national weather service. Website.
Related guides¶
- Should I evacuate?
- What to expect at a cyclone shelter
- Cyclone supply list
- After a cyclone: the first 24 hours
- Insurance claims and disaster aid
Sources¶
Checked on October 10, 2026. If a number or address here is wrong, please tell us at Keith@KMyers.me.