ADDIS ABABA (EI): The death toll from a landslide caused by heavy rainfall in southern Ethiopia has risen to 229, according to local government officials.
The devastating landslides occurred following several hours of intense rain on Sunday night and into Monday morning in the Geze Gofa district. The Gofa Zone Government Communication Affairs Department reported on Tuesday afternoon that at least 229 lives have been lost as a result of these incidents.
Among the deceased are 148 men, 81 women, and several children, as well as security personnel and local officials who were involved in rescue efforts after the initial landslide events.
Local authorities have indicated that the number of fatalities may continue to rise as rescue operations are still underway.
In response to the crisis, the local government has urged all Ethiopians to provide support and assistance for ongoing rescue efforts, as well as to aid those who have been displaced by the disaster.
(PHOTO from Gofa Zone Government Communication Affairs Department shows rescue operations.)