Tragic Landslides in Uganda Claim 13 Lives, Burden 40 Homes

At least 13 fatalities have been reported after landslides buried 40 homes in eastern Uganda’s Bulambuli district, with rescue efforts ongoing. The local Red Cross anticipates that the death toll may rise to 30 as heavy rains persist, complicating rescue operations in the flood-affected area.

Tragedy struck eastern Uganda as landslides claimed the lives of at least 13 individuals, burying 40 homes across six villages in the Bulambuli district. The Uganda Red Cross Society confirmed the recovery of 13 bodies, with ongoing rescue operations indicating the potential for the death toll to rise to 30. This disaster resulted from heavy rainfall on Wednesday night, which caused mudslides in a region frequently affected by such natural occurrences.

Local authorities are currently facing significant challenges in their rescue efforts. Mud-covered roads are impeding the transport of essential equipment, including an excavator promised for use in the operations. Social media accounts depict volunteers and local residents laboriously searching through mud to locate additional victims, with reports highlighting that many of those recovered to date are children. The disaster has prompted the Prime Minister’s office to issue an alert regarding the severe weather impacting the area, which has obstructed major roadways throughout Uganda.

Landslides are a recurrent issue in the mountainous regions of Uganda, particularly during the rainy season. The Bulambuli district, located approximately 280 kilometers east of Kampala, is particularly prone to such disasters, often leading to significant casualties and property damage. The landscape is characterized by steep hills and unstable soil, making it vulnerable to the dynamics of heavy rainfall, which can quickly result in destructive landslides. The recent incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by local authorities in disaster preparedness and response in this region.

In summary, the landslides in Bulambuli have resulted in a tragic loss of life and widespread destruction, particularly affecting vulnerable communities. The ongoing rescue attempts reveal the obstacles posed by inclement weather and muddy conditions, complicating recovery efforts. The situation remains critical as local authorities continue to respond to the disaster, and the public eagerly anticipates updates on the potential for further casualties amidst the continuing rains.

Original Source: www.lismorecitynews.com.au