Landslide in Northern Ethiopia Monastery Kills 14 Worshippers

A landslide triggered by heavy overnight rains struck the Tsadkan Maryam Orthodox monastery in northern Ethiopia's Amhara region, killing 14 worshippers and injuring five others.

Key points

• The disaster occurred at approximately 7:00 AM on Monday in Sila Dengay, located about 200 kilometers northeast of Addis Ababa in the North Shewa zone.
• Local authorities in the North Shewa zone referenced an earthquake and sudden landslide alongside the heavy rainfall.
• Ethiopia frequently experiences severe climate-related disasters during its extended rainy season from June to September.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights Ethiopia's continued vulnerability to climate-induced disasters and extreme weather events, particularly during the heavy seasonal rains.