Landslides in Eastern Uganda Leave 113 Missing, Death Toll Rises to 15

At least 113 people are unaccounted for after landslides in eastern Uganda, which have resulted in 15 confirmed fatalities. The landslides, triggered by heavy rainfall, buried over 40 houses in Bulambuli district, prompting search and rescue efforts. Over the past decade, landslides have claimed more than 1,000 lives in this area, with changing climate patterns contributing to the increased frequency of such disasters.

In eastern Uganda, at least 113 individuals remain unaccounted for following devastating landslides that have claimed 15 lives. The landslides, precipitated by heavy rainfall, buried over 40 homes across six villages in the Bulambuli district. According to police reports, search and rescue operations are actively ongoing in hopes of locating the missing persons. So far, authorities have confirmed the retrieval of 15 bodies and 15 others have been hospitalized due to injuries sustained during the disaster. The situation is exacerbated by overflowing rivers, which have resulted in widespread flooding, affecting schools, churches, and critical infrastructure such as bridges, thereby isolating communities in the region.

This tragic event is part of a broader pattern of landslides the Bulambuli district has faced, with over 1,000 fatalities recorded in the last decade. The region’s vulnerability to such natural disasters is increasing due to erratic rainfall patterns linked to climate change and rising temperatures. The collaborative efforts of local residents, the Uganda Red Cross, police, the National Roads Authority, and military personnel highlight the urgency of search operations in response to this disaster.

The landslides in eastern Uganda reflect an ongoing environmental crisis exacerbated by climate-related challenges. Over the past decade, significant loss of life has occurred due to similar natural disasters in this region, indicating a trend linked to changing weather patterns. The influx of heavy rains resulting in landslides not only leads to immediate loss of life and property but also creates long-term challenges for recovery and rebuilding in affected communities. Concerted rescue efforts are essential to address both the humanitarian crisis and the underlying environmental vulnerabilities.

In summary, the recent landslides in eastern Uganda have highlighted the severe impact of climate change on local communities, leading to substantial human loss and infrastructural damage. While search and rescue operations are underway, the threat of further disasters looms as the region grapples with persistent rainfall and geological instability. It is imperative that local authorities and organizations work together to enhance disaster preparedness and response strategies to mitigate future risks associated with climate change.

Original Source: www.aa.com.tr