More than three quarters of that million are internally displaced refugees.

Four failed rainy seasons have destroyed crops and livestock; and an expected fifth such season will displace many more families.

Mohammed Abdi - Somalia director for the Norwegian Refugee Council - said the one million milestone served as a massive alarm bell for Somalia.

He said more families were being forced to leave everything behind, because there was literally no water or food left in their villages.

Mr Abdi also called for urgent aid funding before it was too late.