Geography of Somalia

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== Geography of Somalia ==

Somalia is located in the Horn of Africa, bordered by Ethiopia to the west, Djibouti to the northwest, the Gulf of Aden to the north, the Indian Ocean to the east, and Kenya to the southwest. The country has a total area of approximately 637,657 square kilometers, making it the 44th largest country in the world.

Topography[edit | edit source]

Somalia's terrain consists mainly of plateaus, plains, and highlands. The northern part of the country is dominated by the Karkaar Mountains, which extend from the Gulf of Aden coast to the central regions. The highest peak in Somalia is Shimbiris, which stands at 2,416 meters above sea level.

The central and southern regions are characterized by flat to gently undulating plains. The Jubba River and the Shabelle River are the two major rivers in Somalia, both of which flow from the Ethiopian highlands towards the Indian Ocean.

Climate[edit | edit source]

Somalia has a predominantly arid to semi-arid climate. The country experiences two main rainy seasons: the Gu (April to June) and the Deyr (October to December). The dry seasons are known as the Jilaal (December to March) and the Hagaa (July to September). Average annual temperatures range from 20°C to 40°C, with the hottest months being March to May.

Natural Resources[edit | edit source]

Somalia is rich in natural resources, including uranium, iron ore, tin, gypsum, bauxite, copper, and salt. The country also has significant offshore oil and natural gas reserves, although exploration and exploitation have been limited due to political instability.

Flora and Fauna[edit | edit source]

The flora of Somalia includes a variety of acacia and commiphora species, as well as frankincense and myrrh trees. The country is home to several national parks and reserves, such as the Kismayo National Park and the Lag Badana National Park, which protect a range of wildlife including elephants, lions, leopards, and various species of antelope.

Environmental Issues[edit | edit source]

Somalia faces several environmental challenges, including deforestation, desertification, and overgrazing. The lack of effective governance and ongoing conflict have exacerbated these issues, leading to significant degradation of the natural environment.