ADDIS ABABA, March 12 (Xinhua) -- The death toll from a landslide Tuesday caused by heavy rainfall in southern Ethiopia has risen to 52, with many others still reported missing, according to local authorities.
In a social media update on Thursday, the Gamo Zone Government Communication Affairs Department confirmed that the bodies of 52 victims have been recovered so far.
Local officials indicated that the death toll could exceed 100, as search efforts are ongoing to locate 50 additional individuals listed as missing in the devastating landslide in the Gamo Zone of the South Ethiopia Regional State, where heavy rains led to flooding in several areas.
On Wednesday, authorities reported that debris from landslides and floodwaters had blocked public transport routes, hindering movement and complicating rescue operations in the affected regions.
South Ethiopia Regional State President Tilahun Kebede expressed deep condolences to the bereaved families on Tuesday, saying that the regional government will provide all necessary support to the affected.
"Given that we are in the rainy season and incidents like this may occur again, I urge communities living in vulnerable areas to take necessary precautions," Kebede said.
Ethiopia is in the midst of a rainy season, which started in February and is expected to last through March. ■
