15 killed, thousands displaced in Ethiopia flood

Addis Ababa, Oct 28: A river burst its banks in southeastern Ethiopia killing 15 people and displacing more than 2,000, the state-run Ethiopian News Agency (ENA) today said.

''Wabe Shebelle broke its banks and flooded adjoining areas following heavy rains in highland Ethiopia,'' ENA said quoting Ethiopia's early warning disaster unit.

State television said late yesterday the towns of Kibredehar and Musthale were flooded and that residents had to move to higher ground. It said a UN boat and fact finding team had been sent to the region.

A UN humanitarian agency said last month devastating flash floods in August had forced more than 135,000 Ethiopians to abandon their homes.

Flooding typically occurs in Ethiopia's lowlands after heavy rains in the June-September season drench the highlands. This year's flooding was especially damaging because it followed a severe drought.

REUTERS