At least 64 killed, dozens reported missing in Ethiopia landslides, floods

Al JazeeraCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete by By AFP and APMarch 12, 2026 at 01:15 PM

AI Summary

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Landslides and flooding in the Gamo Zone of southern Ethiopia have killed at least 64 people, with 128 reported missing as of Thursday, March 12, 2026. According to the South Ethiopia Regional State Police Commission, most victims were found buried in mud. The disaster occurred due to heavy rains, a common cause of mudslides and floods in Ethiopia, especially during the rainy season. A similar mudslide in July 2024 killed over 250 people in the same region. Authorities are urging residents in highlands and flood-prone areas to relocate to higher ground as the rainy season continues, with flooding also impacting neighboring countries like Kenya.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Nairobi 40% East Africa 40% Gacho Baba 50% Kenya 50% Mesfin Manuqa 60% Abebe Agena 60% Tilahun Kebede 60% South Ethiopia Regional State 70% South Ethiopia Regional State Police Commission 70% Ethiopia ×380% Gamo Zone ×290%

Keywords

floods 90% landslides 90% heavy rains 80% death toll 70% missing people 60% disaster 60% rainy season 50% mudslide 50% east africa 40% rescue operations 40%