At least 15 people have been confirmed dead following devastating landslides triggered by heavy rainfall in Bulambuli, a mountainous district in eastern Uganda. Rescue teams, including the Uganda Red Cross, are continuing efforts to locate over 100 people still unaccounted for.
The landslides occurred late Wednesday night, burying homes in debris and leaving several residents injured. The Uganda Red Cross Society confirmed that 15 bodies have been recovered, while 15 injured individuals have been hospitalized.
Destruction of Homes
John Cliff Wamala, spokesperson for the Uganda Red Cross, reported that 40 homes were completely destroyed, with others sustaining significant damage. Relief workers are tirelessly searching for survivors amidst the debris.
A History of Landslide Disasters
Bulambuli is prone to landslides due to its mountainous terrain and heavy rains. Uganda has faced several such tragedies in recent years, including the 2010 Mount Elgon mudslides that claimed over 350 lives. Earlier this year, more than 30 people died in a garbage landslide in Kampala, highlighting the country’s vulnerability to environmental disasters.
Authorities fear the death toll may rise as rescue operations continue.
