Flood causal factors and adaptation strategies in the Upper Awash Basin of Oromia National Regional State Ethiopia

In Ethiopia, floods are frequent and destructive natural hazards, often resulting in loss of life and significant damage to livelihoods. This study examines floods causal factors, and adaptation strategies in the Ejere, Sabata Hawas, and Welmera Districts of Upper Awash Basin, Oromia, Ethiopia. A cross-sectional survey method was utilized, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative data from primary and secondary sources. Data was collected through questionnaire, group discussions, interviews, and observations. A total of 370 respondents from six villages were selected using simple random sampling. Quantitative data was analyzed using percentages and Likert scales, whereas qualitative data was examined through thematic analysis. The findings highlighted the primary causal factors in the region as heavy rainfall, low-lying elevations, river closures, and insufficient drainage systems. Affected households reported livestock, crops, and other assets losses, along-with health issues, education disruptions, social-network breakdowns, displacement, infrastructure damage, economic declines, and increased poverty. Rainfall in the basin triggers flash floods downstream, inundating the area for an average of 25 days, particularly during farming season. Adaptation strategies included evacuation, moving property to safer areas, constructing bridges, altering planting schedules, and preparing loft on the house’s roof. However, these measures were insufficient due to limited early warning systems, inadequate focus on flood effects, and challenging topography. The study urgently recommends integrating early warning and flood management into local development plans to immediately mitigate flood causes, adapt to impacts, and save resources. Furthermore, coordinated efforts involving government and NGO, beyond emergency relief, are vital for comprehensive and sustainable solutions.