In eastern Uganda, landslides have resulted in 15 confirmed fatalities with 113 individuals missing. Heavy rainfall triggered the disaster in Bulambuli district, which is notorious for such events. Current rescue efforts are hampered by muddy roads and continued rainfall.
At least 15 individuals have tragically lost their lives, with 113 more reported missing following devastating landslides that engulfed homes across six villages in eastern Uganda. In the aftermath, 15 injured individuals have been rescued and are currently receiving medical attention at Buluganya Health Center. The Uganda Red Cross Society has confirmed that 13 bodies have been retrieved from the affected areas, where 40 homes were buried, and search and rescue efforts are ongoing. Local media reports suggest that the death toll could potentially escalate to 30.
The landslides struck after severe rains on Wednesday night in Bulambuli district, a region prone to such natural disasters, located approximately 280 kilometers (173 miles) east of Kampala, the capital city. A local journalist reported that officials anticipate deploying an excavator to aid in the rescue operations; however, ongoing rains have rendered the roads impassable and covered in mud. The impacted area spans around 50 acres (20 hectares), comprising residential properties and agricultural lands situated on a hillside.
Visual evidence circulating on social media depicts rescue efforts, with individuals digging through the mud in a desperate search for victims. Some homes were entirely buried, leaving only the roofs visible above the surface. According to The Daily Monitor, the majority of recovered bodies have been those of children. In response to the catastrophic events, the Prime Minister’s office declared a disaster alert on Wednesday, noting that widespread heavy rainfall has disrupted major roadways across the nation. Additionally, two rescue boats capsized during an operation on the River Nile, coinciding with the flooding of the Pakwach bridge.
Landslides are a frequent hazard in the mountainous regions of Uganda, primarily triggered by intense rainfall. The eastern district of Bulambuli, characterized by its vulnerability to such natural disasters, has faced similar tragedies in the past. The geographical landscape, often consisting of steep slopes interspersed with settlements, exacerbates the risks associated with heavy rains. As the climate crisis intensifies, communities in these regions are increasingly susceptible to extreme weather events, prompting concerns about disaster preparedness and response capabilities.
The recent landslides in Uganda have resulted in a significant loss of life, with ongoing recovery operations revealing the extent of the devastation. The tragic circumstances underscore the need for improved disaster management practices in vulnerable regions. As rescue efforts continue, the focus remains on locating the missing individuals and providing support to those affected by this calamity.
Original Source: edition.cnn.com
