At least 80 killed and many more missing after deadly landslides in Ethiopia

At least 80 killed and many more missing after deadly landslides in Ethiopia

Following a catastrophic landslide incident in the southern Gamo Zone, Ethiopia has initiated a three-day mourning period. The disaster, linked to severe flooding, has claimed at least 80 lives, with numerous others still unaccounted for.

Authorities warn that the death toll may climb further as search efforts continue for those trapped or lost. The region has faced relentless downpours, which have intensified the risk of secondary disasters.

The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission reported that 3,461 individuals have been forced to flee their homes due to the landslides. These figures highlight the extensive human impact of the extreme weather events.

“The mourning period will commence on Saturday,” stated Tagesse Chafo, the Speaker of the House of Peoples’ Representatives.

Heavy rainfall has also affected neighboring nations, including Kenya, where at least 62 people were killed in sudden floodwaters. The country has endured persistent rain since late February, signaling the onset of the long rainy season.

Regional forecasts suggest that the March-April-May rainy season could bring above-average precipitation to multiple nations. The IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre noted a 45% probability of increased rainfall across Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, South Sudan, Northern Somalia, and Djibouti.

Iran War Latest: Trump Announces Additional Troop Deployments

Amid the Ethiopian disaster, news of heightened tensions in the Iran War emerged. U.S. President Trump declared that military targets on Kharg Island had been “obliterated” and hinted at sending “5,000 extra troops” to the Middle East.

Meanwhile, the IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre reiterated its warning about the potential for extreme weather conditions to worsen across the East African region, urging communities to remain vigilant.