Deadly landslide hits Orthodox monastery in Ethiopia

On August 4, 2026, a landslide hit an Orthodox monastery in the Amhara region of northern Ethiopia, killing 14 people. The collapse occurred in the early morning hours while worshippers were taking part in a prayer vigil.

The collapse and reported causes

According to Dagnachew Azbite, a local official, “The land above the cave… slid after the heavy rain that lasted throughout the night.” The heavy rains that extended through the night were identified as the immediate trigger of the landslide that brought down the slope above the cave where the prayer chapel was located.

Holy water ritual and the number of victims

The prayer service was held at Tsadqane Debre Mitmaq St Mary Monastery and included a cleansing ritual with holy water, a common practice among Orthodox Christians seeking healing for chronic illnesses. Megabe Hadis Neka Tibeb Ababu, the general manager of the diocese, reported that “Many of those who died had gathered to receive the holy water.” Eleven of the dead were buried at the monastery itself, while the bodies of the others were returned to their hometowns for burial.

Response by authorities and the community

Emergency teams, security personnel, health professionals and nearby residents took part in search and rescue operations, according to local authorities. Archbishop Abune Klementos, head of the North Shewa Diocese of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, traveled to the site to lead funeral prayers, pray for the injured and comfort the grieving families.

History of landslides in Ethiopia

Landslides are recurring hazards during the main rainy season, which runs from June to August. In March, more than 100 people died in floods and landslides in the southern Gamo zone. In July 2024, a landslide in the neighboring Geze Gofa area claimed the lives of over 229 people, including rescuers, making it one of the deadliest climate-related disasters in recent years. Studies over the past twenty years indicate an increase in extreme rain events and prolonged drought periods in East Africa.

Search situation and outlook

Searches for possible victims still trapped in the debris were suspended, leaving the community in mourning and without definitive answers on the total number of missing. Meanwhile, funerals continue to be held, highlighting families' grief and the region's vulnerability to intense weather events.

With information from BBC News.