Moderate to heavy rains resume in the South and parts of the North as the Deyr season comes closer to an end.
From December 11 to 20, substantial Deyr rainfall was received across most of the South and in parts of the northern regions (Figure 1) with the central regions experiencing localized light showers. Most parts of Middle Shabelle recorded little or no rains though some very light rains appear in the satellite estimates. December 11 to 20 rainfall, when compared to the long term average, confirms that rainfall performance was largely normal to somewhat above-normal in most of the areas that received rains (Figure 2).
In the North, some parts of Golis and the drought-affected Guban pastoral livelihood zone received moderate rains prompting the return of a significant number of out-migrated livestock to Guban. However, these rains were not detected by the satellite estimates. In addition, parts of the Hawd in Toghdher Region received heavy rains. Pockets in most livelihood zones in Sool Region reported localized, light rains while the Golis mountains in El Afweyn and Garadag Districts in Sanag Region recorded modest rainfall. However, the rains were not sufficient to refill water catchments or improve pasture conditions in most of the Sool Plateau.
In the Northeast, significant rainfall was received in the Coastal Deeh, East Golis pastoral, and parts of Karkaar Dharoor pastoral livelihood zones in Bari Region. Similarly, localized rain with mixed intensity was reported in the localities of Sool Plateau in Qardho District that had been particularly dry. In Nugal Region, field reports indicate localized, light intensity rains were received in the eastern areas of the Hawd, particularly in Eyl District on December 17 and 18. Rain gauge data from Hasbahale recorded 10 millimeters (mm) of rains with one day of precipitation. Parts of Burtinle and Garowe Districts also received light showers. Opportunistic, but normal livestock migration was reported from western parts of Burtinle District towards adjacent areas of Addun pastoral liveilhood zone.