The death toll from a landslide in eastern Uganda has reached 17, with more than 100 individuals still missing. The disaster, occurred in Bulambuli district due to heavy rains, has buried numerous homes and prompted government warnings for residents in high-risk areas. Rescue operations are underway as the nation grapples with unusual rainfall and its catastrophic effects.
The tragic toll of a landslide in eastern Uganda has risen to 17 confirmed fatalities, with over 100 individuals reported missing as of Friday. The landslide struck on Wednesday in the Bulambuli district, approximately 300 kilometers east of Kampala, obliterating numerous homes across multiple villages. Local television footage depicted extensive mud coverage, where buildings and educational institutions once stood, while survivors mourned the loss of their loved ones amid ongoing rescue efforts. Charles Odongtho, spokesperson for the Office of the Prime Minister, expressed his astonishment at the high death toll despite existing early warning measures intended to protect residents in high-risk areas. The Uganda Red Cross reported that at least 45 households were entirely buried, with others suffering partial destruction. Legislator Ignatius Wamakuyu Mudimi disclosed that his niece and her newborn were among those lost, emphasizing the personal impact of this catastrophe. In light of the disaster, the Ugandan government has urged residents in vulnerable regions to evacuate. Continuous rainfall since October has led to dangerous flooding and landslides across the nation. Furthermore, deforestation on Uganda’s mountain slopes has heightened the threat of such incidents, as seen in past tragedies, including a 2010 avalanche that resulted in approximately 80 fatalities.
Uganda has faced severe weather conditions since October, with significant rainfall leading to widespread flooding and landslides in various regions. The landscape’s vulnerability to landslides is exacerbated by extensive deforestation for agricultural use, which destabilizes the soil. This particular incident in Bulambuli district highlights recurrent natural disasters in mountainous areas of Uganda, where the combination of heavy rains and geological instability often results in devastating landslides. The government has established an early warning system aimed at protecting communities, though recent events prompt concerns about its effectiveness.
In summary, the recent landslide in eastern Uganda has resulted in 17 confirmed deaths and over 100 missing individuals, underscoring the perilous situation faced by residents in landslide-prone areas. As recovery efforts continue and the government insists on relocations for those at risk, the necessity of addressing environmental practices and reinforcing disaster preparedness becomes increasingly evident. This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by climate change and deforestation.
Original Source: dunyanews.tv
