26 May 2023 | 10:16 AM UTC
Uganda: Disruptions due to landslide ongoing in Bulambuli District as of May 26
Response efforts ongoing following fatal landslide in Bulambuli District, Eastern Region, Uganda, May 26; further adverse weather forecast.
Event
Response and recovery operations are ongoing in Bulambuli District In Uganda's Eastern Region as of May 26, following a landslide triggered by heavy rainfall. The landslide occurred in the village of Bumasugu in Buluganya Sub-County late May 25 following hours of heavy rainfall. Authorities have reported at least seven fatalities as of early May 26. Several homes were damaged in the landslide and at least ten displaced residents are being sheltered in a local school. Further isolated showers and storms are forecast over the affected region in the coming days, and additional downpours could trigger further landslides due to the saturated soil, as well as hamper ongoing recovery operations.
Hazardous Conditions
Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood- and landslide-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
