At least 50 people have died and 125 others are reported missing after landslides struck three districts in southern Ethiopia following a week of heavy rainfall, according to local officials.

The landslides occurred in the Gamo Zone, affecting the Gacho Baba, Kamba, and Bonke districts. Mesfin Manuqa, director of disaster response for Gamo Zone, confirmed the casualty figures and said one person was rescued alive from the mud during ongoing search operations.

Abebe Agena, communication chief for Gacho Baba District, stated that most victims were found buried in mud. The exact number of affected households remains unclear as rescue efforts continue.

Tilahun Kebede, president of the South Ethiopia Regional State, expressed condolences and urged residents to relocate to higher ground as rains persist. "Given that it is the rainy season and these types of disasters could happen again, I am calling on communities living in the highlands and flood-prone areas to take the necessary precautions," he said.

Landslides and flooding are common occurrences in Ethiopia during the rainy season. In July 2024, a similar mudslide in southern Ethiopia killed 229 people, highlighting the region's vulnerability to such disasters.

Forecasters indicate that storms in the region are becoming more intense, which experts partly attribute to global climate change patterns affecting rainfall intensity and frequency.