The death toll from heavy rains and landslides that ravage East Africa has reached over 300 people, according to the International Red Cross. Affected countries include Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda.
In Ethiopia, at least 159 people were killed as of February 22, 2021 according to the Ethiopian National Disaster Risk Management Commission. Landslides, flash floods, and swollen rivers have caused destruction in several regions in the country with the most affected cities being Addis Ababa, Dire Dawa, Bale, and Somali. At least 2.8 million people have been affected by the floods, with over 450,000 homes destroyed.
Rwanda has reported at least 42 deaths and 45 injured due to torrential rain which ended on February 15. Almost 600 houses were destroyed and over 16,000 people have been affected. In Kenya, at least 129 people were reported killed due to floods and landslides with over 190,000 people affected in 38 counties. In Uganda, at least 25 people have died with thousands more affected as of February 19.
The floods have left hundreds of thousands of people homeless, with many in need of safe shelter, clean water, hygiene supplies, and healthcare. Aid organizations are mobilizing resources to help those affected.
