Death toll in Ethi8k8 appsopia landslide rises to 229

ADDIS ABABA -- The death toll from Monday's landslide in southern Ethiopia has risen to 229, the local government said on Tuesday.

The deadly landslide occurred on Monday morning at around 10:00 am local time (0700 GMT) in southern Ethiopia's Geze Gofa district.

The deaths include 148 males and 81 females, according to a statement issued by the Gofa Zone Government Communication Affairs Department.

As part of rescue efforts, the Ethiopian Red Cross Association and professionals from neighboring regions and zones are currently at the site, helping the victims.

The deadly landslide occurred as Ethiopia is in the midst of a rainy season, which started in July and is expected to last until mid-September. Seasonal rains occasionally cause deadly landslides in some parts of the East African country.