Ten people have tragically lost their lives in a landslide in the northern region of Amhara in Ethiopia, with eight others seriously injured. The Amhara Media Corporation reported that the disaster occurred in the North Gondar zone, although specifics of the incident such as the exact time and ongoing search efforts were not mentioned. Four bodies have been recovered from the mud, and photographs shared on social media showed individuals carrying what appeared to be a body from the scene. In total, 2,400 people have been displaced by the landslide and are currently being housed in local social institutions.
This recent landslide is part of a series of natural disasters that have struck Ethiopia due to heavy seasonal rains. The country has been facing high risks of flooding and landslides according to a United Nations report that cited the Ethiopian Metrology Institute. In July, a devastating landslide in Kencho Shacha Gozdi in southern Ethiopia claimed the lives of 229 individuals and displaced many more. Just a week later, six people were killed in another landslide in the Gishere district in the Sidama regional state. And earlier this month, 11 individuals lost their lives in a landslide in the Kawo Koisha district of the Wolaita administrative zone, further highlighting the ongoing dangers posed by natural disasters in the country.
The landslide in Amhara is a stark reminder of the vulnerability of communities in Ethiopia to such catastrophes, especially during the rainy season. The local administrator, Tesfaye Workneh, confirmed the death toll of 10 individuals and provided updates on the rescue and treatment efforts for the injured victims. The region is currently dealing with the aftermath of the disaster, with thousands of people displaced and in need of shelter and support. The AMC’s coverage of the incident sheds light on the critical situation unfolding in the affected area and the urgent need for resources and assistance for those impacted by the landslide.
Efforts to address the ongoing risks of flooding and landslides in Ethiopia are crucial in order to prevent further tragedies and protect vulnerable communities. The Ethiopian Metrology Institute’s warning of high risks of natural disasters underscores the need for proactive measures to mitigate the impact of heavy rains and prevent future disasters. The government and humanitarian organizations must work together to ensure that at-risk areas are monitored, prepared, and supported in the face of potential disasters. The recent landslides in various parts of Ethiopia serve as a call to action for improved disaster preparedness and response strategies to safeguard the lives and livelihoods of the country’s population.
As the recovery and relief efforts continue in Amhara and other affected regions, it is essential for the international community to support Ethiopia in responding to the aftermath of the landslides and providing assistance to those in need. The tragic loss of life and displacement of thousands of individuals underscore the urgent need for humanitarian aid and resources to address the ongoing crisis. Collaborative efforts between government agencies, humanitarian organizations, and local communities are essential to effectively respond to the immediate needs of those affected and to build resilience against future natural disasters. The landslide in Amhara serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of life in the face of environmental hazards and the importance of proactive measures to protect vulnerable communities in Ethiopia and beyond.
