United KingdomA deadly landslide struck a mountain monastery in Ethiopia's northern Amhara region during an overnight prayer service, killing 14 people and injuring seven. The incident occurred at the Tsadqane Debre Mitmaq St Mary Monastery, where worshippers had gathered for a special ceremony involving a holy water cleansing ritual. Heavy rainfall throughout the night caused the hillside above the monastery to collapse, trapping several individuals. Rescue efforts were eventually halted due to safety concerns. Many of the deceased were there to seek spiritual healing through the holy water rite. Eleven victims were buried at the monastery, while others were returned to their hometowns for burial. Identifying all victims proved challenging. Landslides are common in Ethiopia during the rainy season, which runs from June to August. Similar disasters have occurred recently, including over 100 deaths in March due to floods and landslides in the southern Gamo Zone and more than 229 fatalities in July 2024 in the neighboring Geze Gofa Zone. Scientists note that climate change has increased the frequency and severity of extreme weather events in East Africa.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a balanced account of the disaster, focusing on the event itself, the impact on the community, and broader environmental factors like climate change. It does not take a clear stance on political issues, nor does it favor any particular group or ideology in its reporting. The use
