A devastating landslide struck the Tsadqane Debre Mitmaq St. Mary Monastery in Ethiopia's Amhara region on Monday morning, resulting in 14 fatalities and multiple injuries.
The incident occurred at approximately 7 a.m. as hundreds of worshippers had gathered for a holy water cleansing ceremony, one of the largest religious gatherings in the area.
Casualties and Rescue Efforts
- Fourteen people lost their lives in the disaster.
- Seven others sustained serious injuries and were transported to hospitals in Debre Birhan, about 70 kilometres from the site.
- Rescue teams, supported by local disaster prevention officials, continue to search for survivors and those still missing beneath the debris.
Community Impact and Response
Eleven of the deceased were buried at the monastery, while the remaining three were taken to their home communities for burial. The region has experienced an increase in weather-related disasters, with heavy seasonal rains contributing to landslide risks in the highlands.
Authorities have yet to confirm the number of individuals still unaccounted for as search operations persist.
