Persistent heavy rains trigger floods and landslides in Uganda, at least 6 dead
Incessant heavy rain across Uganda has led to more flooding and landslides, killing at least 6 people in rain-related incidents since October 30, 2019. 4 500 people have been displaced, 950 houses schools were damaged, as well as roads and bridges.
In the Eastern Region, Uganda Red Cross reported that heavy rain in Busia District killed one person on November 5. The victim died after strong rains caused a house to collapse in the Western Division of the district.
Another person died after heavy rains and flooding hit the Iganga District on October 28, 2019. Around 300 people were evacuated. According to media reports, residential and commercial properties were damaged, as well as wide areas of crops.
Most of the affected residents were in the districts of Bulambuli and Butaleja.
In the Western Region, three children have died in the district of Kasese after their home collapsed due to a landslide on October 30.
The incident happened in Bulembia Division, Kilembe Valley. This place is known to be vulnerable to landslides and flash flooding, and children are often the victims.
Since 2011, at least 17 children have died in landslide-related incidents in the area.
3 children have been comfirmed dead after their house structure collapsed in due to a landslide that was triggered by heavy rain in Kirembe valley, Kasese municipality last night. We commiserate with the family and our team is offering PSS services. #Humanitarianresponse pic.twitter.com/iBo3svaFf5
— Uganda Red Cross Soc (@UgandaRedCross) October 31, 2019
Together with @PoliceUg we engaged community members in Kirembe valley at a home where 3 children died this morning. Discussions held around disaster preparedness and safety of people in this Community. It is prone to landslides and mapped among the disastrous "at risk" areas. pic.twitter.com/h59ls0b1qy
— Uganda Red Cross Soc (@UgandaRedCross) October 31, 2019
Uganda Red Cross assured that they are working with authorities to educate local communities about the hazards of landslides and flooding. Disaster preparedness will also be discussed with residents.
In the Central Region, the Kafu River has reached 10 (33 feet) above normal levels, posing a risk of major flooding.
On the other hand, the Ssezibwa River has already exploded, damaging a bridge. Moreover, one fatality was reported and two others are missing after the swollen river swept them away on November 3.
Observation made on River Kafu by our disaster preparedness team indicates that the water level has risen by 10m from it's normal level. An alert has been sent to the DDMC & Community Based Response Teams to be on high alert. We are also sensitising communities to be vigilant. pic.twitter.com/mvRq4bV5J1
— Uganda Red Cross Soc (@UgandaRedCross) October 29, 2019
Walusimbi Ganiru 17 yrs, completed his S.4 exams yest at Bright college Secondary School in Busia and died last night when their house collapsed and fell on him.
The incident happened in Solo C village, North B Ward, Western Division of Busia Municipal Council, Busia District. pic.twitter.com/VfkjaTwxpL— Uganda Red Cross Soc (@UgandaRedCross) November 6, 2019
Featured image credit: Uganda Red Cross
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