A landslide in southern Ethiopia’s Gofa zone has claimed the lives of at least 146 people, with the death toll expected to rise. The disaster occurred on Monday at around 10:00 am local time, following heavy rains in the mountainous region.
The landslide has affected the Geze-Gofa district, where rescue efforts are ongoing. Local official Habtamu Fetena reported that the bodies of 96 men and 50 women have been recovered, with the search for survivors continuing.
The region has been experiencing severe weather conditions, with the short seasonal rains causing flooding and mass displacement. The international community has expressed concern, with humanitarian agencies working to provide aid to those affected.
The Ethiopian government has yet to comment on the disaster, but local authorities have urged caution, warning that the situation could worsen. The landslide has highlighted the vulnerability of communities in the region to natural disasters, emphasizing the need for urgent action to mitigate the effects of climate change.