A devastating landslide struck the village of Tarasin in the Marrah Mountains, Darfur region, western Sudan, on August 31, 2025, following days of heavy rainfall. Reports indicate that the village was nearly completely destroyed, with over 1,000 people killed and only one survivor.
The Sudan Liberation Movement/Army (SLM/A), a rebel group active in the area, stated that Tarasin was destroyed after being hit by massive landslides, leaving only one person alive (Al Jazeera). Multiple news agencies, including Al Jazeera, CBS News, Anadolu Agency (AA), and Associated Press, cite the SLM/A’s reports of over 1,000 fatalities (Al Jazeera, AP News).
As of early September 2025, at least 375 bodies have been recovered, with many more believed still buried under debris (AP News). Heavy rainfall and the region’s mountainous terrain are hampering rescue and recovery operations (Channel News Asia).
The exact death toll is still uncertain. While the figure of over 1,000 is widely reported, UN and government-linked sources have not yet provided independent confirmation (Al Jazeera). The identity and condition of the single survivor are also preliminary and have limited verification (Channel News Asia).
The village was reportedly completely levelled, meaning almost all buildings, homes, and infrastructure were destroyed (Al Jazeera). Rescue teams are facing significant challenges due to the remote location, damaged roads, and heavy rainfall, requiring transport by foot or animals in some cases (Al Jazeera).
This disaster adds to Sudan’s ongoing humanitarian challenges, occurring amid conflict, displacement, and limited aid access (Al Jazeera).
Sources
Al Jazeera — Landslide kills more than 1,000 in Sudan’s Darfur region, armed group says https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/9/2/landslide-kills-more-than-1000-in-sudans-darfur-region-armed-group-says?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Associated Press — Sudanese authorities bury hundreds of victims of Darfur landslide https://apnews.com/article/ab72217ad461f268e01b4b4488378f13?utm_source=chatgpt.com
CBS News — Sudan landslide levels village, kills 1,000 https://www.cbsnews.com/news/sudan-darfur-landslide-levels-village-kills-1000/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Anadolu Agency — Over 1,000 killed in landslide in western Sudan village https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/over-1-000-killed-in-landslide-in-western-sudan-village/3675819?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Channel News Asia — Landslide wipes out Sudan village, killing hundreds https://www.channelnewsasia.com/world/landslide-wipes-out-sudan-village-killing-hundreds-5329756?utm_source=chatgpt.com
