ADDIS ABABA, March 13 (Xinhua) -- The death toll from a landslide triggered by heavy rainfall on Tuesday in Gamo Zone of southern Ethiopia has risen to 70, with several others still missing, local authorities said Friday.
Demissie Admasu, chief administrator of Gamo Zone in South Ethiopia Regional State, confirmed that 70 bodies have been recovered so far.
Most of the casualties, according to the official, were in the highland areas, where saturated slopes gave way following the intense rain.
According to local police, the death toll could exceed 100, as search efforts continue to uncover additional individuals listed as missing in the devastating landslide.
Admasu called for strengthening soil conservation activities, including stone tracing across the zone to prevent similar accidents in the future.
The Gamo Zone Government Communication Affairs Department confirmed that more than 3,400 residents have been displaced from the affected localities.
On Wednesday, local 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 people.
"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. ■