At least 20+ people killed as heavy rain triggers landslides in Mbeya region
Authorities in the Tanzania say at least 20+ people have been killed after heavy rain triggered landslides in the Mbeya Region. The disaster struck in the Rungwe district, where flooding and powerful downpours caused slopes to collapse and houses to be buried under mud and debris, officials said.
According to local administrators, 18 bodies were recovered on Wednesday, and two more on Thursday, bringing the official death toll to 20, with expectations that the number could rise as search and rescue teams continue their work.
One of the victims was reported to be a young child, underscoring the tragedy’s severity. Residents in vulnerable parts of the region have been urged to evacuate as rainfall is expected to continue in the coming days.
The Tanzanian Meteorological Authority had forecast widespread heavy rain across much of the country, warning of potential flooding and landslides during the ongoing rainy season.
Emergency response teams are still searching for survivors amid difficult conditions, with local officials emphasizing that residents should move to safer, higher ground. Assessments are ongoing to determine the full scope of damage to homes and local infrastructure.
