Landslide News & Updates
Every time the ground gives way in Africa, it makes headlines for a reason. Whether it's a mountain slope collapsing after heavy rains or a mining pit that suddenly caves in, landslides hit hard and fast. On this page we bring you the most recent landslide reports from across the continent, quick safety advice, and a look at what experts say about preventing future disasters.
What Causes Landslides?
Most landslides start with water. A long rainy season soaks soil, reduces friction, and makes hills unstable. In places like Kenya’s highlands or the Drakensberg, deforestation adds to the problem – trees that once held the earth together are gone, leaving loose ground ready to slide. Mining, construction, and even earthquakes can trigger a slip when the land is already weakened. Knowing these triggers helps communities stay alert before a disaster strikes.
Staying Safe During a Landslide
If you hear rumbling or see cracks forming in a slope, act fast. Move away from the base of the hill and head for higher ground if possible. Keep an emergency kit with water, food, a flashlight, and any medication – landslides can cut off roads for days. Local authorities often issue warnings through radio or SMS; sign up for those alerts if your area is prone to slides.
After the slide, avoid the disturbed area. Even if the ground looks stable, hidden pockets of loose soil can give way later. Follow instructions from rescue teams and never try to walk down a fresh landslide path on your own. If you’re trapped, stay calm, cover any wounds, and signal rescuers with bright clothing or a whistle.
Beyond personal safety, it’s important to understand the wider impact. Landslides can wipe out crops, destroy homes, and block critical roads that supply hospitals and schools. That’s why many African governments are investing in early‑warning systems and re‑planting trees on vulnerable slopes. Keeping an eye on local news helps you know when new measures are being rolled out in your region.
We update this page as fresh landslide stories break, so you’ll always have the latest info at hand. From a deadly slide in Uganda’s highlands to a smaller but still scary event near Johannesburg, we cover it all. Stay informed, stay prepared, and share these tips with friends and family – together we can reduce the damage that landslides cause.
Ethiopia Declares National Mourning Following Catastrophic Landslide Tragedy
Ethiopia has declared a three-day national mourning period in response to a devastating landslide in the southern region that has tragically claimed over 250 lives. The landslide, triggered by heavy rainfall, has led to widespread fatalities and the displacement of thousands. The Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commission is coordinating relief efforts, while international organizations have expressed their condolences.
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