Deadly Landslide in Southern Ethiopia Claims 13 Lives, Hundreds Evacuated

A landslide caused by intense rainfall in southern Ethiopia's Wolaita region has resulted in at least 13 deaths, with the toll expected to increase, according to local officials. Samuel Fola, the chief administrator of Wolaita zone, reported that over 300 individuals have been evacuated from Kindo Didaye district. The exact number of missing persons remains uncertain.

Rescue Efforts and Evacuations

Fola mentioned that children are among the deceased. He stated, "We have now evacuated more than 300 people as a precaution and in anticipation of yet another likely major landslide." The regional government confirmed that a frantic rescue operation is ongoing in the Wolaita area.

The recent landslide appears less deadly compared to one last month in another part of southern Ethiopia, which claimed over 200 lives. Landslides are frequent during Ethiopia's rainy season, which began in July and is expected to continue until mid-September.

Historical Context and Regional Impact

The mountainous terrain of Wolaita, with limited infrastructure, is particularly susceptible to such disasters. In 2016, heavy rains triggered a mudslide in the same area, resulting in over 41 deaths and displacing hundreds. Last month, a significant mudslide in neighbouring Gamo Gofa killed more than 229 people. The United Nations Office for Human Rights (OCHA) suggested that the death toll could be as high as 500.

Deadly mudslides are common across the broader East African region. In April, flash floods and a landslide in Kenya's Rift Valley killed at least 45 people, destroying homes and severing a major road.

The ongoing rescue efforts in Wolaita highlight the region's vulnerability during the rainy season. With more rain expected until mid-September, authorities remain on high alert for potential future landslides.