At least 30 people are feared dead after devastating landslides swept through Masugu village in eastern Uganda’s Bulambuli district, local officials reported on Thursday. The disaster occurred after heavy rains battered the region, triggering landslides that buried homes and left many residents missing.
“We lost about 30 people,” said Bulambuli district commissioner Faheera Mpalanyi. “Given the devastation and the size of the area affected, and from what the affected families are telling us, several people are missing and probably buried in the debris.” So far, emergency teams have recovered six bodies, including that of a baby, as rescue operations continue.
The Ugandan prime minister’s office confirmed the disaster, stating that as many as 20 homes are feared to have been swept away. In a disaster alert issued on X (formerly known as Twitter), the office wrote, “Heavy rains on Wednesday in parts of Uganda have led to disaster situations in many areas.”
The East African nation has been experiencing intense rainfall in recent days. In the northwest, flooding occurred after a tributary of the Nile River burst its banks, causing further disruptions and prompting emergency teams to scramble to rescue stranded motorists.
Residents in affected areas are urged to remain vigilant as authorities coordinate rescue and relief efforts. The government and humanitarian agencies are working to provide aid to the survivors and search for those still missing.
“Our teams are on the ground, and we are doing everything possible to support the affected communities,” Commissioner Mpalanyi added. “We appeal to everyone to stay safe and follow the guidance of local authorities.”
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
