Landslides kill 20 in Southern Tanzania as heavy rains last East Africa

At least 20 people have died following devastating landslides in southern Tanzania, as torrential rainfall continues to batter parts of East Africa, triggering floods and soil collapses across the region.

The disaster struck the Rungwe District in Mbeya Region, where days of relentless downpours saturated the ground, causing hillsides to give way. The landslides engulfed homes and trapped residents, leaving a trail of destruction in the affected communities.

Local authorities confirmed the death toll on Friday, cautioning that the number may rise as search and rescue operations remain underway. Emergency teams have been deployed to recover bodies, assist survivors, and provide relief to displaced families.

Officials reported that the landslides occurred with little warning, the force of mud and debris burying structures and belongings. Among the deceased are children, highlighting the devastating human toll of the disaster.

Regional Crisis Unfolds

The tragedy underscores a broader crisis across East Africa, where unusually heavy seasonal rains have unleashed flooding and landslides in several countries. Neighboring Kenya and Ethiopia have also reported deaths and widespread displacement in recent weeks as rivers burst their banks and unstable terrain gives way.

Meteorologists attribute the conditions to seasonal rainfall patterns expected to deliver above-normal precipitation from March through May, raising the risk of further disasters in flood-prone and erosion-vulnerable areas.

Calls for Improved Preparedness

The ongoing downpours have reignited concerns about disaster preparedness in the region. Rural and mountainous communities remain especially vulnerable due to limited infrastructure, inadequate drainage systems, and gaps in early warning mechanisms.

Authorities and humanitarian organisations are urging stronger mitigation measures, including improved land-use planning, investment in drainage infrastructure, and enhanced public awareness campaigns to help communities respond to extreme weather events.

Residents in high-risk areas—particularly those living on hillsides or near riverbanks—have been advised to remain vigilant and heed official warnings. Emergency crews continue to provide temporary shelter, food, and medical support to those displaced.

With rains forecast to persist across East Africa in the coming days, attention is now focused on preventing further loss of life and safeguarding vulnerable communities from additional hazards.