At least 30 people are feared dead in eastern Uganda due to landslides, with heavy rains triggering national disaster alerts. Recovery efforts are underway amidst warnings of rising fatality numbers. Approximately 40 homes have been destroyed, and emergency teams are assisting those impacted by floods and impassable roads.
At least 30 individuals are believed to have lost their lives due to landslides in Bulambuli district, eastern Uganda, as reported by local officials. The region has experienced intense rainfall, prompting the government’s declaration of a national disaster alert following widespread flooding and additional landslides. The tragic event occurred in Masugu village on Wednesday evening, leading to significant devastation and many families still searching for their missing loved ones.
Local authorities have begun recovery efforts, with six bodies, including that of an infant, having been retrieved. However, district commissioner Faheera Mpalanyi expressed concern over the potential for the death toll to increase, noting, “Given the devastation and the size of the area affected and from what the affected families are telling us, several people are missing and probably buried in the debris.”
In addition to the loss of life, John Cliff Wamala from the Ugandan Red Cross indicated that 13 bodies have been located thus far. He also reported that approximately 40 homes were entirely destroyed while others suffered extensive damage. Meanwhile, the Ugandan prime minister’s office alerted the public about the severe rainfall that has instigated calamities across various localities.
Efforts to assist those affected by the floods also include emergency teams working to save stranded motorists and manage impassable roads due to the rising waters from a tributary of the Nile River. Unfortunately, it was reported that one boat capsized while on a rescue mission, resulting in one engineer’s death. Historical context reveals that this is not the first occurrence of such disasters in Uganda; previous landslides have caused substantial fatalities, making this a critical situation for the nation.
The recent landslides in Uganda are part of a broader pattern of devastating weather-related disasters that have plagued East Africa. Following heavy rains, landslides and floods have increasingly led to loss of life and destruction of property. Notably, previous incidents, such as the mudslides in the Mount Elgon region in 2010 and the rubbish landslide in Kampala earlier this year, highlight the risks posed by severe weather phenomena. The government’s declaration of a national disaster underscores the urgency of addressing these catastrophic events that disproportionately affect vulnerable communities.
In conclusion, the tragic landslides in eastern Uganda have resulted in at least 30 fatalities, with many individuals still unaccounted for. The local governments and emergency services are mobilizing efforts to recover the deceased and assist affected families. The severe weather conditions that birthed these disasters point to a pressing need for continued vigilance and improved disaster preparedness strategies in the region.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
