Friday, December 20News That Matters

Tag: Ethiopia

Death Toll in Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 229 Search for Survivors Continues

Death Toll in Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 229 Search for Survivors Continues

Breaking News, Disasters
The death toll from two devastating landslides in southern Ethiopia has surged to 229, with the number expected to rise further as rescue efforts continue, a government official reported on Tuesday. Triggered by heavy rainfall, the first landslide occurred in the Gofa zone of Southern Ethiopia's regional state on Sunday night, burying numerous residents. A second landslide struck on Monday morning, engulfing many who had gathered to assist in rescue operations. "I don't know when it will stop. We are still recovering bodies," said Markos Melese, head of the National Disaster Response agency in Gofa Zone, in a phone interview with Reuters. "We are still digging." Initially, officials reported at least 50 fatalities, including children and police officers. However, the toll has esca...