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

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.

At least 50 people are dead and 125 missing after landslides struck three districts in southern Ethiopia's Gamo Zone on Thursday. The landslides, affecting the Gacho Baba, Kamba, and Bonke districts, were triggered by a week of heavy rains. Rescue operations are underway, with one person found alive. Local officials report most victims were buried in mud. The president of the South Ethiopia Regional State urged residents in highlands and flood-prone areas to relocate due to ongoing rains and the risk of further disasters. Mudslides and floods are common in Ethiopia during the rainy season; a similar event in July 2024 killed 229 people.