A recent landslide in eastern Uganda has resulted in at least 15 fatalities and 113 individuals missing, following heavy rains. Rescuers have retrieved 13 bodies and are continuing their search in challenging conditions. The local population, particularly children, appears severely affected, prompting alarm from disaster response agencies and local authorities.
At least 15 individuals have lost their lives, and 113 others are reported missing following devastating landslides that buried homes across six villages in Eastern Uganda, according to police reports. Rescue operations continue for the 15 people who were injured and subsequently brought to Buluganya Health Center. The Uganda Red Cross Society confirmed that 13 bodies have been recovered from the debris, with the anticipated death toll potentially rising to 30 as searches persist.
The landslides were triggered by torrential rainfall on Wednesday night in the Bulambuli district, a region notorious for such geological events. A news correspondent in the area informed The Associated Press that local authorities plan to deploy an excavator for rescue purposes; however, mud-covered roads remain a significant obstacle, and additional rainfall continues to hinder the efforts. The impacted area encompasses approximately 50 acres of homesteads and farmland located downhill from the landslide-prone zones. Videos depicting rescue efforts have circulated on social media, showing individuals laboriously sifting through mud to locate missing persons, with some homes entirely submerged in mud save for their roof tops.
Reports from the Daily Monitor indicate that a concerning number of the recovered bodies are those of children. In light of the situation, the Prime Minister’s Office issued a disaster alert on Wednesday, noting that the ongoing heavy rains across the nation have resulted in the obstruction of major roadways. Furthermore, two rescue boats reportedly capsized during a rescue mission in the Nile River, where the Pakwach bridge was submerged.
This tragic event highlights the vulnerabilities of communities in mountain regions prone to landslides, particularly following heavy rainfall. Eastern Uganda’s Bulambuli district is known for its susceptibility to such natural disasters. The consequences of extreme weather events, such as heavy rains leading to landslides, have a profound impact on the local population, often resulting in loss of life, injury, and displacement. This incident underscores the critical need for enhanced disaster preparedness and responsive measures, particularly in regions affected by climate variability.
In conclusion, the recent landslides in eastern Uganda have resulted in significant loss of life and left many others missing, with the situation expected to worsen. The rescue operations face challenges due to ongoing rainfall and impassable roads. This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by communities in susceptible areas and highlights the importance of disaster preparedness and response capabilities. The government and humanitarian organizations must collaborate to safeguard affected communities and mitigate the risks of future disasters.
Original Source: edition.cnn.com
