More than 200 Dead in Southern Ethiopia Landslides

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In a tragic turn of events, the death toll from two landslides in a remote region of southern Ethiopia has risen to 229, according to local authorities. The landslides, which occurred on Monday, have caused significant devastation in the affected areas.

The communication affairs department of Gofa Zone reported on Tuesday that the fatalities included 148 males and 81 females. Children are among the victims, and the death toll is expected to increase as rescue operations continue.

Local official Habtamu Fetena told the Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation (EBC) that heavy rainfall triggered the landslides. The first landslide buried many individuals, while the second struck as rescue efforts were underway, claiming the lives of several rescuers.

Dagmawi Ayele, an administrator for the Gofa Zone, informed the EBC that five individuals stuck in the mud were successfully rescued and are currently receiving medical treatment. The local community, undeterred by the challenging conditions, continues to search for more survivors. Photos from the scene depict rescuers using their bare hands to sift through the mud in hopes of finding more victims.

Ethiopia is particularly susceptible to landslides during the rainy season, as noted by geological surveys. In addition to the landslides, the southern region has experienced severe flooding due to heavy rains, displacing thousands of people in recent months. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported last month that these conditions have exacerbated the humanitarian situation in the area.

Last year, floods and landslides claimed the lives of at least 43 people in Ethiopia, as reported by OCHA in November. The southern region has a history of devastating landslides; in May 2018, 45 people were killed in twin landslides in the West Arsi, Sidama, and Gamo Gofa zones.

Authorities are urging residents in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant and adhere to safety precautions during the rainy season. The Ethiopian government, along with international aid organizations, is mobilizing resources to support the affected communities and facilitate ongoing rescue and relief efforts.