The short Deyr rains commonly begin in October, bringing renewed showers to southern regions and some central areas. Flooding is possible where soils are saturated. For travel, coastal and northern itineraries are typically less affected than interior routes.
Marco Gualazzini CC BY-SA 4.0 Wikimedia Commons
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Average temperature across Somalia in October.
Mogadishu, Kismayo, Juba & Shabelle valleys
October brings the start of the Deyr (short rains) - showers increase and the lowlands begin to green again. Flash flooding is possible after heavy storms, especially around low-lying settlements and river tributaries; road travel to smaller villages can become difficult. This is a lively month agriculturally, with markets fuller and rural life busier; carry waterproof footwear and allow extra travel time.
Galkayo, Hobyo, Dhusamareb
October sees the start of the Deyr in central Somalia, bringing periodic showers that refresh wells and make scrubby grazing reappear. Heavy showers can cause brief but intense surface runoff, affecting local roads and making some rural tracks sticky. This month is attractive for seeing pastoral communities respond to new pasture, but expect variable road conditions and bring waterproof footwear.
Bosaso, Garowe, Cape Guardafui
October brings the Deyr season’s approach: showers become more frequent in the northeast, replenishing springs and filling small wadis. The Golis foothills and higher ground get the most noticeable effect; sudden heavy showers can disrupt dusty tracks. For visitors, this is an interesting time to see the landscape recover, but carry waterproof footwear and be wary of flash flooding on rural roads.
Berbera, Hargeisa, Zeila
October brings the Deyr with increasing showers in the highlands and some sporadic rain on the coast; the rains top up reservoirs around Hargeisa and the countryside begins to green. Berbera may have rougher sea conditions on rainy days and some inland tracks become sticky, so check conditions before heading off-road. Pack waterproof footwear and insect repellent, and be ready for variable weather on day trips.
Cal Madow / Golis Mountains, Erigavo, Las Anod area
October heralds the stronger Deyr influence in the highlands with increased cloud and intermittent rain; many springs and trickles refill and the landscape brightens. Tracks into higher communities can get soft and muddy after heavy showers, so 4x4s are useful for remote journeys. This month suits travelers interested in seasonal flora and local pastoral rhythms, but pack waterproofs and insect repellent.
There are no major festivals or events in Somalia during October to be aware of.
See how October compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.