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New Zealand Landslide Search Continues; President Trump Offers U.S. Support

Al JazeeraThursday, January 22, 2026

Rescue teams are working against the clock in New Zealand after a devastating landslide buried part of a remote campsite on the North Island. The disaster, triggered by torrential rains that have battered the region, has left an unspecified number of people unaccounted for.

Emergency services, including police and specialist alpine units, are navigating treacherous conditions to reach the affected area. The severe weather has caused widespread flooding and multiple landslides, cutting off roads and complicating access for responders.

New Zealand authorities have not yet released the names or nationalities of those missing. The incident underscores the increasing frequency of extreme weather events in the country.

In Washington, President Donald Trump, now in the second year of his term, issued a statement expressing his concern. "Our hearts are with the people of New Zealand during this terrible tragedy," the President said. "The United States stands ready to provide any assistance necessary to support the rescue efforts."

Local officials have urged residents in vulnerable areas to heed evacuation orders as the rain continues. The coming hours will be critical for search teams hoping for signs of life beneath the mud and debris.

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