Thirteen people have died and many homes were buried due to landslides in eastern Uganda following heavy rains. Rescue operations are underway, with fears of a rising death toll. Most victims are reportedly children, and the region has a history of such disasters, emphasizing the need for effective response measures.
At least 13 individuals have tragically lost their lives following a series of landslides that buried approximately 40 homes across six villages in eastern Uganda. The Uganda Red Cross Society has confirmed the recovery of 13 bodies, although it is feared that the death toll may reach up to 30 as rescue operations continue. These devastating landslides occurred after a significant amount of rainfall on Wednesday night in the mountainous Bulambuli district, an area known to suffer from such natural disasters.
The district, located about 280 kilometers east of Kampala, experienced severe mudslides that left a vast area of farmland and residences affected, spreading over approximately 20 hectares. According to a local journalist relaying information from officials, efforts are underway to bring an excavator to aid in the recovery, yet the persistent rainfall has rendered access to the affected regions extremely challenging due to mud-covered roads.
Images and videos circulated on social media depict citizens working tirelessly through the mud in search of victims. Several homes are reported to be completely submerged, with only parts of the roofs above ground. The Daily Monitor has indicated that the majority of recovered bodies are of children.
In response to this disaster, the Prime Minister’s Office has issued an alert regarding the heavy rains impacting major roadways throughout the nation, emphasizing the dire situation in Bulambuli and similar regions.
Natural disasters, particularly in the form of landslides, are prevalent in Uganda’s mountainous regions, especially during the rainy season. Bulambuli district has a history of such incidents, often exacerbated by heavy precipitation and the geological composition of the land. The vulnerability of local populations to landslides necessitates proactive monitoring and emergency preparedness, particularly in rural areas where infrastructure may be lacking. Losses are often magnified in regions with inadequate preparedness, leading to significant human and economic costs.
The recent landslides in eastern Uganda have resulted in a confirmed death toll of at least 13, with fears that more victims may be discovered as rescue efforts proceed. The torrential rains have severely hindered recovery operations, demonstrating the ongoing risks faced by communities in mountainous regions. The situation underscores the necessity for improved disaster response measures and infrastructure to mitigate the impacts of natural disasters in the future.
Original Source: www.lismorecitynews.com.au
