In the Gamo Zone area in Southern Ethiopia, several landslides occurred in the early morning of 11th March 2026, triggered by several days of heavy rain and flash floods. The disaster occurred in the highland areas where saturated slopes gave way after heavy, intense rains.
According to Al Jazeera, 128 persons are missing, and 80 bodies have been found, and many more are believed to be buried under mud and debris (Reuters).
Homes, farmlands and infrastructure have been destroyed, displacing 3,480 people, most of whom have lost their homes and assets, with thousands still at risk (Dawan Africa 12, March 2026). The disaster is likely to cause a disruption to agricultural activities and have an impact on food security, according to the Gamo Zone Ethiopian Red Cross Branch office (WRAL News).
The Gamo Zone disaster response office is coordinating the response, and rescue activities are ongoing. The Ethiopian Red Cross Society has initiated the provision and distribution of humanitarian assistance, such as Non-Food Items (blankets, cloths, and basic household items), to displaced families.
National members of the ACT Ethiopia forum are planning to respond to the affected.
