Landslide death toll in Ethiopia rises to 146

The death toll from a landslide in southern Ethiopia has climbed to at least 146, according to a local official who cautioned that the number may still increase.

On Monday, at around 10:00 am (0700 GMT), a landslide occurred in a mountainous area of the South Ethiopia regional state, triggered by heavy rainfall.

The earlier reported death toll stood at 55 according to a statement from the Gofa zone Communications Affairs Department.

A local official, Habtamu Fetena, noted: “The number of dead from the sudden landslide that happened in Geze-Gofa district of Gofa zone has passed 146.”

Habtamu reported that 96 men and 50 women’s bodies had been recovered, emphasizing that search efforts were ongoing with intensity and cautioning that the death toll might rise.

The Gofa zone is situated approximately 450 kilometers (270 miles) north of the capital, Addis Ababa.

It takes about 10 hours to drive there and is located north of the Maze National Park.

The South Ethiopia regional state experienced heavy rainfall during the short seasonal period between April and early May.

These rains resulted in flooding and widespread displacement, as reported by the UN’s humanitarian response agency, OCHA.

On Monday, the state-affiliated media outlet Fana Broadcasting Corporate shared images on Facebook.

The images showed hundreds of people near a devastating scene of tumbled red soil.

These photographs depicted people using their bare hands to dig through the soil, searching for survivors.

About landslides

Landslides, also known as landslips or rockfalls, are natural disasters that occur when rock, soil, or debris moves down a slope, often suddenly and unexpectedly. They can be caused by a combination of factors, including:

1. Heavy rainfall or flooding
2. Earthquakes or tremors
3. Volcanic eruptions
4. Human activities like deforestation, mining, or construction
5. Geological conditions like steep terrain or unstable rock formations

Types of landslides:

1. Rockfalls: sudden release of rock from a cliff or slope
2. Mudslides: movement of mud and water down a slope
3. Debris flows: mix of water and sediment flowing down a slope
4. Landslips: slow movement of soil or rock down a slope

Effects of landslides:

1. Loss of life and property
2. Infrastructure damage (roads, bridges, buildings)
3. Environmental impact (deforestation, habitat destruction)
4. Disruption of essential services (water, electricity)
5. Economic consequences (agricultural losses, tourism impact)

Prevention and mitigation strategies:

1. Monitoring and early warning systems
2. Slope stabilization techniques (terracing, retaining walls)
3. Controlled deforestation and reforestation
4. Avoiding construction in high-risk areas
5. Emergency preparedness and response planning

Notable landslide events:

1. 2014 Oso landslide (Washington, USA)
2. 2010 Zhouqu landslide (China)
3. 2005 La Conchita landslide (California, USA)
4. 1995 Armero tragedy (Colombia)

Remember, landslides can be unpredictable and deadly. It’s essential to be aware of the risks and take proactive measures to prevent and prepare for these natural disasters.

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