Flooding in Ethiopia's Somali region has destroyed villages and displaced over 100,000 people. At least 134 people are known to have died, many after being attacked by deadly crocodiles.

Forty villages along Ethiopia's largest river, the Wabe Shebelle, were affected by the flood. The river burst its banks on 23 April 2005 after two days of continuous heavy rain and spread over 10 km, forcing villagers to flee to higher ground.

Flooding occurred along the entire length of the river.

The flood waters swept families away and destroyed houses and crops. Bridges, power lines and roads were also damaged by the floods.

Agriculture has been severely affected by the disaster. The deluge destroyed several acres of crop and killed more than 4,000 goats, 2,000 camels and several hundred head of cattle.

Crocodile Menace

At least nineteen flood survivors have been devoured by crocodiles. Many were forced to hide in trees to avoid the swarms of hungry reptiles.

Tens of thousands of people now fear returning home because of the floods and the crocodiles.

Islamic Relief Response

The immediate needs of the survivors include food, shelter, blankets, utensils and medical care.

Islamic Relief is spending an initial €20,000 to meet the needs of the affected people, and is focusing its efforts on delivering food aid.

IR staff are distributing high-energy biscuits over the next two weeks, and will help rebuilding houses and restocking livestock.

Your donation will help bring relief to the victims of the disaster.