Deadly Landslides in Southern Ethiopia Claim Lives and Leave Many Missing

A series of devastating landslides in southern Ethiopia's Gamo Zone have resulted in at least 64 confirmed deaths and left 128 individuals reported missing. The landslides occurred after a week of heavy rainfall, impacting the Gacho Baba, Kamba, and Bonke districts. Local authorities have been conducting search and rescue operations, with reports indicating that many victims were found buried in mud.

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• Mesfin Manuqa: Director of disaster response for Gamo Zone, who confirmed the ongoing search efforts and the number of casualties.

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• Abebe Agena: Communication chief for Gacho Baba District, who reported that most victims were discovered buried in mud.

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• Tilahun Kebede: President of the South Ethiopia Regional State, who expressed condolences and urged residents to relocate to higher ground due to the ongoing risk of further landslides.

Landslides in southern Ethiopia kill at least 50 people, 125 more missing

Tilahun Kebede emphasized the need for communities in highland and flood-prone areas to take precautions, stating, “Given that it is the rainy season and these types of disasters could happen again, I am calling on communities living in the highlands and flood-prone areas to take the necessary precautions.” This warning highlights the ongoing threat posed by the current weather conditions.

At least 64 killed, dozens missing in Ethiopia floods

The landslides have not only resulted in loss of life but have also raised concerns about the safety of communities in the region. The South Ethiopia Regional State is assessing the full extent of the disaster's impact on households. The recurring nature of such disasters, particularly during the rainy season, underscores the vulnerability of the region to extreme weather events. Historical data indicates that similar incidents have occurred, including a catastrophic mudslide in July 2024 that resulted in 229 fatalities.

Deadly landslides strike southern Ethiopia, killing 50 as 125 remain missing

There are discrepancies in the reported death toll and the number of missing individuals. While some sources report at least 64 deaths and 128 missing, others cite lower figures, such as 50 confirmed deaths and 125 missing. This inconsistency highlights the challenges in obtaining accurate information during ongoing rescue operations.

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• “The number of people missing due to the recent flood in Gamo zone has reached 128, and according to the latest information, 64 bodies have been found,” — South Ethiopia Regional State Police Commission

At least 64 killed, dozens missing in Ethiopia floods

• “I am calling on communities living in the highlands and flood-prone areas to take necessary precautions,” — Tilahun Kebede, President of the South Ethiopia Regional State

DEATH TOLL FROM SOUTHERN ETHIOPIA FLOODS RISES TO 64

Rescue operations are ongoing as authorities continue to search for missing individuals. The situation remains precarious, with warnings of potential further landslides as heavy rains persist in the region. Local officials are monitoring the weather and advising residents to remain vigilant.

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