A landslide triggered by heavy rains in Ethiopia's Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples' Region Gamo Zone has claimed 52 lives, following an earlier incident in the same zone that killed 30. The government has expressed condolences and initiated relief efforts. Communities in Afe Gubae Ta Geshe have urged support for the affected residents.
This disaster follows a previous landslide in Degama kebeles of Gamo Zone last month, which killed 30 people amid heavy rains, prompting officials to urge caution in prone areas.
On Megabit 1, 2018 EC, another landslide struck various areas in Gamo Gofa Zone, including Gamo's Baba Wereda Laka Kebele and Arbaminch town, claiming 52 lives. It affected vulnerable riverbank and flood-prone regions, causing significant property damage and displacement.
The Ethiopian Federal Government's Communication Service expressed sorrow, offering condolences to bereaved families and the people of Gamo Zone. Federal and regional officials are overseeing relief operations. In coordination with the Federal Disaster Risk Management Commission, essential supplies, food, and aid are being provided to the displaced.
Communities in Afe Gubae Ta Geshe, Arbaminch town, and Gamo Zone have appealed for assistance. The government is resettling people to safer areas, providing risk training, and offering psychosocial support. With unstable weather persisting, residents in riverine areas are urged to follow safety directives.
