Heavy rains accompanied by strong and destructive winds recently experienced in Juba should serve as an important warning for South Sudan to strengthen disaster preparedness ahead of the coming rainy months.
These sudden weather conditions have already shown how vulnerable communities, homes, roads, schools, markets, and other public facilities can be during heavy rainfall and strong winds.
For families living in temporary structures or poorly constructed houses, such weather can cause serious damage and leave people exposed to further hardship.
Recent discussions about El Niño’s possible effects in October, November, and December should therefore not be treated as ordinary seasonal forecasts.
They should encourage government institutions, humanitarian organisations, communities, and other stakeholders to take early and practical measures to reduce the impact of potential weather-related disasters.
The government should strengthen early-warning systems and ensure that weather information reaches communities in simple and timely ways. Residents need to know when severe weather is approaching and what precautions they should take to protect their families, livestock, and property.
They should also inspect vulnerable infrastructure across Juba and other major towns. Drainage systems, roads, bridges, schools, health facilities, and public buildings should be assessed and repaired where necessary.
Blocked drainage channels must be cleared to reduce flooding, while areas known to be vulnerable to flash floods should receive particular attention.
Strong winds also require preparedness. Authorities should identify buildings and structures that may pose risks during severe weather and encourage property owners to reinforce weak roofs, walls, and other vulnerable sections.
Public awareness campaigns can help households secure loose roofing materials, trees, and other objects that could become dangerous during strong winds.
At the community level, local authorities, chiefs, youth groups, women’s organisations and civil society should be involved in disaster preparedness. Communities are often the first responders when emergencies occur, and strengthening their capacity can save lives before professional assistance arrives.
Government institutions should also ensure that emergency response teams have the necessary equipment, transport, communication systems, and basic supplies to respond quickly when disasters occur.
Contingency plans should be reviewed and tested rather than waiting until an emergency overwhelms the response system.
Most importantly, preparedness should not be limited to Juba. Other parts of South Sudan are equally exposed to flooding, storms, displacement, and damage to infrastructure. National preparedness plans should therefore consider the different risks facing communities across the country.
The heavy rain and destructive winds recently experienced in Juba should be taken as a reminder that extreme weather can quickly disrupt daily life. Whether or not every forecasted impact materialises, preparing early is a responsible approach.
South Sudan cannot prevent severe weather, but it can reduce its consequences. Government and communities must therefore act early, strengthen warning systems, protect vulnerable infrastructure, and prepare emergency responses before the situation becomes a crisis.
God protect South Sudan.
Be the spectator!