Death Toll from Catastrophic Landslides in Southern Ethiopia Rises to 157

SOUTHERN ETHIOPIA — The death toll from the devastating landslides that struck southern Ethiopia has tragically surged to 157, with the possibility of further increases as search and rescue operations persist. This somber update was disclosed by government officials on Tuesday, underscoring the severe impact of the natural disaster on the region.

The initial landslide occurred in the Gofa Zone within the Southern Ethiopia regional state, burying numerous individuals beneath a massive deluge of mud and debris. The disaster was compounded when a second landslide struck on Monday morning, engulfing those who had assembled to aid the victims of the first landslide. This sequence of events has led to an extraordinarily high and tragic loss of life.

Markos Melese, head of the National Disaster Response Agency in Gofa Zone, conveyed the formidable challenges faced by recovery teams. In a phone interview with Reuters, Melese reported, “Searching is still ongoing, and there are bodies that are yet to be recovered. The area is very challenging.” The difficult terrain and adverse conditions in the affected areas are complicating the efforts of rescue teams as they work to recover victims and provide necessary assistance.

Extent of the Disaster

The landslides have wrought devastating destruction, burying entire villages under thick layers of mud and debris. According to the Gofa Zone Government Communication Affairs Department, “We have so far recovered 157 bodies from two villages... We believe the number will increase.” The disaster has had a severe impact on the local population, with emergency services working tirelessly to locate and recover additional victims.

The mudslides have claimed the lives of young children and pregnant women, underscoring the profound and tragic toll on the most vulnerable members of the community. Dagmawi Ayele, a local administrator, highlighted this heart-wrenching detail, emphasizing the extensive and tragic impact of the landslides on families and communities within the Kencho Shacha Gozdi district.

Context and Response

Landslides are a recurring hazard during Ethiopia’s rainy season, which began in July and is anticipated to continue until mid-September. The heavy rainfall characteristic of this season frequently leads to soil erosion and landslides, particularly in areas characterized by steep slopes and unstable soil conditions.

The Ethiopian government, in collaboration with international aid organizations, is mobilizing resources to address the immediate needs of the affected populations. Efforts are concentrated on search and rescue operations, providing medical care to the injured, and delivering essential supplies to those displaced by the disaster.

Local authorities and disaster response teams are confronted with significant obstacles as they manage the aftermath of the landslides. The challenging terrain, coupled with ongoing adverse weather conditions, has rendered the recovery efforts particularly complex and demanding.

Future Outlook

As the situation evolves, there is an urgent need for international support to enhance the ongoing relief efforts. The scale of the disaster highlights the critical importance of preparedness and resilience in managing natural hazards, especially in regions prone to such catastrophic events.

The Ethiopian government and humanitarian organizations are expected to continue their coordinated efforts to provide aid and support to the affected communities. The goal is to expedite the recovery process and address the needs of those impacted by the landslides through concerted and effective assistance.

In conclusion, the landslides in southern Ethiopia have resulted in a devastating loss of life and significant damage. The ongoing search and rescue operations, along with international support, are vital in responding to this disaster and aiding the affected communities during this challenging time.