Devastating Flooding and Landslides Claim Lives of 20 in Tanzania's Hanang District

At least 20 people have been killed and 70 others injured due to severe flooding and landslides in northern Tanzania, according to local officials. The incident occurred near Mount Hanang, prompting President Samia Hassan to deploy national security forces to aid in rescue efforts. The adverse weather conditions have not only claimed lives but also caused damage to homes and infrastructure. Tanzania experiences frequent flooding, which is considered its most significant natural hazard and impacts thousands of people annually. East Africa has been particularly impacted by floods and landslides in 2023, partly due to the El Niño weather phenomenon. In recent months, Tanzania witnessed above-average rainfall leading to casualties and destruction of property in the capital, Dar es Salaam, as well as Kigoma, Kagera, Geita, and Unguja. The floods have also resulted in the loss of crops in certain areas, affecting people's livelihoods. Tanzania's meteorology agency has issued a warning that the heavy rains will persist throughout this month.