Massive landslide hits western Uganda after heavy rains

At least 15 people have been killed after a massive landslide caused by heavy rains buried their homes on September 6, 2022. As many as 18 people are feared missing. Search and rescue operations are still in progress.

The slide hit Kasika village in Rukoki subcounty of the Kasese district.

The majority of the dead are mothers and children, the Uganda Red Cross Society spokeswoman Irene Nakasita said in a statement.

Six people were seriously injured and taken to a nearby hospital.

We recieved a land slide alert that came in at around 4:00AM from Kasese, Rukoki Sub-County, Kasika Village.
A few households are feared buried and some people said to be missing.

We dispatched a response team to support the affected families.

Courtesy photo @KaseseUg @opmdpm pic.twitter.com/eQ37fZ3X1s

— Uganda Red Cross Society (@UgandaRedCross) September 7, 2022

Kasese district sits in the foothills of the Rwenzori mountains and is prone to landslides.

Heavy rains started in late July, following a prolonged period of drought.

Featured image credit: Uganda Red Cross Society