A deadly landslide struck a mountain monastery in Ethiopia during an overnight prayer service, sending rocks and earth crashing onto worshippers, according to authorities.
Live updates
Loading updates…
Key facts
- A landslide hit a mountain monastery in Ethiopia during a prayer service.
- Rocks and earth crashed onto those praying at an overnight service, authorities say.
- The incident occurred during an overnight prayer gathering.
- The event was reported by the BBC.
A landslide has struck a mountain monastery in Ethiopia, causing deaths after rocks and earth crashed onto worshippers who had gathered for an overnight prayer service, according to authorities cited by the BBC.
The disaster unfolded during the prayer gathering, when the sudden collapse of earth and rock brought debris down on those in attendance. Authorities described the landslide as sending rocks and earth crashing onto the people praying at the site.
The monastery’s mountain setting placed the overnight service in the path of the falling debris. The timing of the landslide, during an active prayer session, meant worshippers were present when the ground gave way.
The BBC reported that the authorities confirmed the incident, though further details on the scale of casualties and the response effort were not provided in the available information.
As details remain limited, the focus rests on the account provided by local authorities describing the moment the landslide struck the gathering. Additional information is expected to emerge as officials continue to assess the situation.
Why it matters
Landslides can strike suddenly and with devastating consequences, particularly in mountainous regions where communities and places of worship are built on or near steep terrain. Incidents that occur during large gatherings, such as an overnight prayer service, can put many lives at risk at once.
Frequently asked questions
Where did the landslide happen?
The landslide struck a mountain monastery in Ethiopia, according to the BBC.
When did the landslide occur?
It happened during an overnight prayer service, when rocks and earth crashed onto those praying, authorities say.
What caused the casualties?
According to authorities cited by the BBC, the landslide sent rocks and earth crashing onto worshippers gathered for the prayer service.
Timeline
- Deadly landslide hits Ethiopia mountain monastery during prayer service
BBC World: It sent rocks and earth crashing on to those praying at an overnight service, the authorities say.