Tragic Landslide in Ethiopia Kills Over 20 After Heavy Rainfall

Tragic Landslide in Ethiopia Kills 10 After Heavy Rainfall

Ten people have lost their lives in a devastating landslide in northern Ethiopia, as heavy rainfall continues to wreak havoc in the region.

At a Glance

A landslide in northern Ethiopia’s Amhara region has claimed over 20 lives
Eight people were seriously injured and are receiving treatment
Approximately 2,700 people have been displaced and are in temporary shelters
The incident is part of a series of landslides due to heavy seasonal rains in Ethiopia
A recent UN report warned of high risks of further flooding and landslides in the country

Deadly Landslide Strikes Amhara Region

In a tragic turn of events, a landslide triggered by heavy rainfall has claimed the lives of ten people in northern Ethiopia’s Amhara region. The incident, reported by the Amhara Media Corporation (AMC), has left the local community reeling and authorities scrambling to manage the aftermath. Tesfaye Workneh, a local administrator, confirmed the deaths and stated that four bodies had been recovered so far.

The disaster has not only resulted in loss of life but has also caused significant displacement. According to reports, approximately 2,700 people have been forced to leave their homes and are currently sheltered in local social institutions. The AMC shared distressing images on their Facebook page, showing people carrying bodies recovered from the mudslide, highlighting the grim reality of the situation.

2,400 people have been displaced by the recent landslide in #Ethiopia's #Amhara region, seeking refuge in local social institutions. https://t.co/hC3JDEYj2F

— Al Mayadeen English (@MayadeenEnglish) August 25, 2024

Ongoing Challenges and Response Efforts

The landslide has not only claimed lives but also left eight people seriously injured. These victims are currently receiving medical treatment, adding strain to local healthcare facilities. The disaster has also had a significant impact on local agriculture and livestock. Reports indicate that 35 heads of cattle were killed, and crops on 30 hectares of land were damaged, further compounding the economic challenges faced by the affected community.

Local authorities and rescue teams are working tirelessly to search for the six individuals who are still missing. The challenging terrain and ongoing weather conditions are making rescue efforts difficult, but the teams remain committed to their task. The federal government has also stepped in, with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed expressing deep sadness over the incident and deploying the Federal Disaster Prevention Task Force to assist in the rescue and recovery efforts.

A Pattern of Natural Disasters

This tragic event is not an isolated incident but part of a series of similar occurrences that have plagued Ethiopia in recent times. The country is currently in its rainy season, which started in July and is expected to last until mid-September, increasing the risk of such disasters. Earlier this month, at least 11 people died in a landslide in the Kawo Koisha district of the Wolaita administrative zone, while six people lost their lives in the Gishere district in the Sidama regional state.

“We stand in strong solidarity with the people and Government of #Ethiopia as rescue efforts continue to find the missing and assist the displaced,” wrote Moussa Faki Mahamat, African Union Commission chief, on social media platform X.

The frequency and intensity of these landslides underscore the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness and response strategies in Ethiopia. As climate change continues to alter weather patterns, the country faces an increased risk of such natural disasters, highlighting the importance of long-term planning and infrastructure development to mitigate future tragedies.