By Daily Times Reporter
At least 20 people have been killed in landslides in southern Tanzania following days of relentless rainfall, as extreme weather continues to devastate parts of East Africa.
The disaster struck early Wednesday in the Mbeya Region, where intense rains and strong winds triggered landslides that tore through homes. Authorities in Rungwe District confirmed the fatalities, including that of a young child, and warned that the death toll could still rise as search efforts continue.
Residents living in high-risk zones have been urged to relocate to safer areas, with weather forecasts indicating that more heavy rainfall is expected in the coming days.
Across the region, the seasonal rains have left a trail of destruction. In Kenya, severe flooding has killed at least 88 people, with over 20 counties affected. Rivers have burst their banks after weeks of continuous downpours, prompting the deployment of the military to assist in rescue and relief operations.
Meanwhile, Ethiopia has also suffered significant losses, with landslides earlier this month claiming around 80 lives in southern parts of the country.
The widespread devastation has renewed concerns over disaster preparedness and the vulnerability of communities living in flood-prone areas. Climate experts had already warned that the March to May rainy season would likely bring heavier-than-usual rainfall across East Africa, putting multiple countries at risk.
Source: AFP
