Ethiopia: Disruptions, casualties, and emergency response ongoing as of Aug. 5 following fatal landslides in Tepa Kebele area of Wolayta Zone

Response operations are ongoing in Tepa Kebele, Wolayta Zone, South Ethiopia Regional State, as of Aug. 5, following landslides that have caused fatalities. As of Aug. 5, authorities have reported at least 11 fatalities; search operations continue, and the death toll could rise further in the coming hours and days.

Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional landslides in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rain has saturated the soil, as well as possible flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Floodwaters and debris flows will likely render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces will probably cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities will likely temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Freight and passenger bus delays and cancellations are probable in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions are likely in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.