Tragic Mudslide in Eastern Uganda Claims 20 Lives and Leaves Many Missing

The mudslide in Bulambuli, eastern Uganda, has resulted in at least 20 confirmed deaths and over 100 individuals missing. Authorities report that 21 people have been rescued, and efforts to locate the missing are ongoing following significant rainfall that triggered the disaster.

The death toll from the mudslide that struck multiple villages in eastern Uganda’s Bulambuli district on Wednesday night has tragically increased to 20, confirmed by a police spokesperson on Friday. Rogers Taitika, representing the Elgon region police, conveyed to Xinhua that the bodies of 20 victims have been recovered from the disaster site. In addition, over 100 individuals are feared missing following the incident, which was precipitated by heavy rainfall that caused the disaster to bury more than 40 homes, and partially damage others. Currently, 21 survivors have been rescued and are receiving medical attention. Authorities are continuing their rescue operations with several teams actively engaged in efforts to locate missing persons.

Landslides and mudslides have increasingly characterized the landscape of Uganda, particularly during periods of intense rain. The country’s vulnerability to such natural disasters has risen, evidenced by a prior incident in August that claimed over 30 lives at a garbage dump site in central Uganda due to similar rain conditions. Earlier in May, a landslide in the Kasese district resulted in eight fatalities. These events underscore the urgent need for disaster preparedness and response strategies to handle the risks associated with heavy seasonal rainfall in the region.

In summary, the devastating mudslide in Bulambuli district has led to a confirmed death toll of 20, with more than 100 individuals still unaccounted for. The Ugandan police continue their operations to rescue survivors and recover missing persons. The recurring nature of such disasters in Uganda highlights the pressing need for effective measures to mitigate risks associated with heavy rainfall and landslides.

Original Source: www.socialnews.xyz