A devastating landslide in Bulambuli, eastern Uganda, has resulted in at least 13 confirmed fatalities and has destroyed about 40 houses due to heavy rainfall. The Ugandan Red Cross Society is engaged in rescue operations amidst fears that additional casualties may arise, with many individuals still missing, and military assistance has been deployed for recovery efforts.
In a tragic event in eastern Uganda, a landslide has claimed the lives of at least 13 individuals, as emphasized by the Ugandan Red Cross Society. The disaster, which struck the Bulambuli district following heavy rainfall, has led to the destruction of approximately 40 houses, leaving officials concerned that the death toll may be significantly higher. Reports by AFP suggest that as many as 30 individuals may have perished in this calamity. Rescue operations are actively ongoing, as several people, particularly children, remain unaccounted for.
The heavy rains that have plagued East Africa in recent days have resulted in disaster warnings, as issued by the Office of the Prime Minister. The deluge has not only triggered landslides but has also caused riverbanks to overflow, leading to the flooding of educational and religious institutions, damaging bridges, and cutting off access to various neighborhoods. In light of the severity of the situation, military personnel have been deployed to assist in search and recovery efforts for the affected communities.
The Bulambuli district is situated approximately 280 kilometers from Kampala, the capital of Uganda, and is one of the areas frequently impacted by environmental hazards such as landslides, particularly during the rainy season. The frequent and intense rainfall this season has exacerbated the risk of natural disasters, leading to significant casualties and destruction of property. Community vulnerabilities, such as the precarious construction of homes and lack of infrastructure resilience, compound the effects of these disasters, making it essential for government and humanitarian agencies to respond effectively.
The landslide in Bulambuli underscores the severe impact of heavy rainfall in eastern Uganda and highlights the urgent need for disaster preparedness and response strategies. With many individuals still missing and significant damage incurred to local communities, coordinated rescue and recovery efforts by authorities are critical to assist those affected and mitigate future risks. Continued vigilance and investment in infrastructure resilience are essential to protect communities from the increasing threat of natural disasters in this region.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
