113 Missing and 15 Dead Following Devastating Landslides in Eastern Uganda

At least 113 individuals are missing following devastating landslides in eastern Uganda that have resulted in 15 confirmed deaths and injuries to 15 others. The landslides, triggered by heavy rainfall, buried over 40 houses in the Bulambuli district. Ongoing search and rescue operations involve multiple local agencies and organizations.

In the eastern region of Uganda, devastating landslides have left at least 113 individuals unaccounted for, with the current death toll reported at 15 by local police. Efforts to locate those missing are actively underway, as emergency teams continue their search. Thus far, authorities have recovered 15 bodies and treated 15 others for injuries sustained during the disaster, which occurred in six villages in the Bulambuli district.

The landslides were triggered by heavy rainfall, which subsequently buried more than 40 houses in affected areas. Officials caution that additional casualties may be trapped beneath the mud due to the ongoing torrential rains. The search and rescue operations involve local residents, the Uganda Red Cross, Uganda Police, the National Roads Authority, and military personnel, as highlighted by police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke.

Widespread flooding has resulted from overflowing rivers, affecting local schools, churches, and infrastructure, thus isolating numerous communities. This tragic event is not unprecedented for the Bulambuli district; over the past decade, multiple landslides have claimed the lives of over 1,000 individuals. Authorities attribute the increasing frequency of such disasters to erratic rainfall patterns, which are believed to stem from climate change and rising global temperatures.

The region of eastern Uganda has been historically vulnerable to landslides, primarily due to its topography and weather patterns. Heavy rainfall, often exacerbated by climate change, has led to soil erosion and instability, making the area prone to such natural disasters. Over the last ten years, the effects of these climate changes have resulted in significant loss of life and property, compelling both local governments and humanitarian organizations to engage in heightened readiness for search and rescue operations following such calamities.

In summary, the recent landslides in eastern Uganda highlight both the immediate dangers posed by natural disasters in the region and the long-term implications of climate change. As search and rescue efforts continue, the likely toll may increase, revealing the catastrophic impact such extreme weather events can have on communities already struggling with the consequences of environmental changes.

Original Source: www.aa.com.tr