2026 Gamo Zone floods and landslides
The 2026 Gamo Zone floods and landslides were floods and landslides that occurred in Gamo Zone, South Ethiopia Region, Ethiopia from 10–11 March 2026. Heavy rains caused floods and landslides in various areas of the zone leading to loss of lives and displacement of people.
The most severely affected areas included Gacho Baba, Kamba Zuria, Bonke and West Abaya woredas.
Impact
According to the World Health Organization, a total of 125 people died in the disaster, and more than 18,400 people were left homeless. Many homes were destroyed or badly damaged. Agricultural land and infrastructure were also impacted by the disaster.
Response
The government of Ethiopia along with the Ethiopian Red Cross Society and other humanitarian aid organizations carried out rescue and relief operations. The World Health Organization provided emergency medical supplies and technical assistance to health facilities serving affected communities.
On 13 March, the House of Peoples' Representatives announced a three-day mourning period beginning on March 14 to 16, 2026, in memory of the victims of the disaster. In this regard, it was ordered that the flag of Ethiopia be flown at half-mast in all government buildings, in Ethiopian diplomatic missions, and other official places. This decision was made amid an increasing number of fatalities due to the disaster.
Later, the African Union Commission issued its sympathies and called the event “a disaster that has left thousands of people homeless.” Similarly, the Ethiopian Catholic Church also issued a condolence statement, asking for humanitarian help to be sent to the victims.
See also
- 2024 Gofa landslides
- 2026 in Ethiopia
- List of floods
- List of landslides