Thirteen individuals have died due to landslides that buried forty homes in eastern Uganda after heavy rains. Rescue operations continue, with authorities fearing the death toll could rise. Most recovered bodies are children. Local transport remains disrupted as efforts to reach the affected area face challenges from ongoing weather conditions.
At least thirteen individuals have tragically lost their lives following landslides that buried forty homes across six villages in eastern Uganda. The ongoing rescue operations led by the Uganda Red Cross Society have so far recovered thirteen bodies, although local officials anticipate the death toll could rise significantly to approximately thirty. The landslides were triggered by heavy rain that fell on Wednesday night in the mountainous Bulambuli district, known for its susceptibility to such disasters.
The situation remains critical as an excavator is expected to join the rescue efforts; however, local roads are currently impassable due to mud and continuous rainfall. The area impacted spans twenty hectares with homesteads and agricultural land situated downhill. Distressing images and videos of the local population searching through mud for victims have circulated on social media. Reports indicate that many of the deceased are children, which is particularly heartbreaking. The Prime Minister’s Office has issued disaster alerts regarding the heavy rains affecting major roads throughout the country.
Uganda frequently encounters natural disasters, particularly landslides, which often occur following heavy rainfall, especially in areas with steep terrain. The mountainous districts of eastern Uganda, such as Bulambuli, are particularly vulnerable due to their geographic features and climate patterns. These landslides can result in devastating losses of life and property, exacerbating the challenges faced by local communities and emergency services working to respond to such crises effectively. This incident highlights the urgent need for disaster preparedness and infrastructure improvements in these high-risk areas.
In summary, the devastating landslides in eastern Uganda have resulted in the loss of at least thirteen lives, with expectations that this number may increase. The rescue operations are hindered by challenging weather conditions, and many homes have been entirely covered by mud. As the situation develops, the need for efficient emergency response and preventive measures becomes ever more critical to safeguard communities against future disasters.
Original Source: www.lismorecitynews.com.au
