East Africa flood: death toll tops 110 as heavy rains wreak havoc

Severe Flooding and Landslides in East Africa

The death toll from recent floods and landslides in East Africa has exceeded 110. In Ethiopia, at least 64 individuals have perished, while Kenya has reported 50 fatalities. The region continues to experience heavy rainfall, resulting in widespread destruction and displacement.

In the Gamo Zone of southern Ethiopia, 64 deaths have been confirmed due to landslides caused by prolonged rainfall, according to local police inspector Abraham Buha. Search operations are ongoing for missing individuals. The town of Arba Minch and nearby areas have experienced significant damage to homes, infrastructure, and farmland. Additionally, mudslides have obstructed essential roads and bridges.

In Kenya, the Interior Ministry has confirmed 50 fatalities across 17 counties, including Nairobi, Kisumu, and Narok. Over 12,300 homes have been either destroyed or damaged, and nine individuals are still unaccounted for. Multi-agency response teams are actively working to coordinate relief efforts amidst disruptions to roads, power supplies, and schools.

Experts have indicated that climate change is contributing to more frequent and severe rainfall events in East Africa. This disaster follows a similar occurrence last July when a landslide in Ethiopia's Geze Gofa Zone resulted in over 229 deaths.

Based on reporting by Africanews.