Ethiopia landslides death toll rises to 257, expected to nearly double: UN

Heavy rains triggered the initial landslide on Monday in the mountainous Gofa zone. A second landslide struck rescuers who had gathered to help those affected by the first.

The OCHA announced the revised figures on Thursday, marking a significant increase from the 229 reported by Ethiopia's National Disaster Risk Management Commission earlier this week.

Rescue efforts continue in the Kencho Shacha locality, with hundreds searching the mud-covered area for survivors. The disaster is considered the deadliest landslide ever recorded in Ethiopia.

Adding to the urgency, OCHA stated that over 15,000 people require evacuation, including more than 1,300 children and 5,200 pregnant women and new mothers.

Efforts continue to manage the crisis and provide relief to those impacted by the disaster. (ILKHA)