Search and Rescue Operations Underway As 113 Remain Missing After Uganda Landslides
At least 113 individuals are reported missing, and 15 fatalities have been confirmed following catastrophic landslides in eastern Uganda’s Bulambuli district. Triggered by heavy rainfall, the landslides buried more than 40 homes and prompted extensive search and rescue operations involving multiple agencies. The region has a history of such disasters, with over 1,000 deaths recorded in the past decade due to landslides linked to climate change.
In a tragic event in eastern Uganda, authorities report that at least 113 individuals remain missing following devastating landslides that have resulted in 15 confirmed fatalities. These landslides, which were triggered by heavy rainfall, have buried more than 40 residences across six villages in the Bulambuli district. Search and rescue operations, involving local residents, the Uganda Red Cross, law enforcement, the National Roads Authority, and military personnel, are currently in progress as officials strive to locate those unaccounted for. Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke stated that, “Efforts are underway to locate the missing people.” Meanwhile, 15 individuals have been hospitalized due to injuries sustained during this disaster.
The landslides have exacerbated flooding conditions in the region, which has witnessed overflowing rivers that inundate educational institutions, places of worship, and critical infrastructure, resulting in community isolation. This incident is a continuation of a persistent pattern of landslides in the area, with historical records indicating over 1,000 fatalities over the past decade attributable to similar disasters. The severity of these events has been linked to changing climate conditions, characterized by unpredictable rainfall patterns and rising temperatures that have intensified the risk of landslides within this vulnerable region.
The Bulambuli district of eastern Uganda has experienced a series of devastating landslides over the past decade, resulting in significant loss of life and destruction of property. The region’s susceptibility to such natural disasters is exacerbated by climate change, leading to erratic rainfall patterns that contribute to soil erosion and instability. This ongoing challenge poses substantial risks to the local communities, necessitating urgent humanitarian responses and comprehensive disaster management strategies. Understanding this historical context highlights the severity of current events and the critical need for ongoing support to affected populations.
The recent landslides in eastern Uganda significantly highlight the ongoing environmental challenges faced by the region. With 113 individuals still unaccounted for and a rising death toll, intensive search and rescue operations remain critical. Authorities must prioritize addressing the underlying issues of climate change and disaster preparedness to mitigate the impacts of future landslides and protect vulnerable communities. The collective efforts of local organizations and government agencies are essential for a sustained recovery and support for those affected.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
