02 Aug 2022 | 06:30 AM UTC
Uganda: Flooding occurring in Eastern Region as of Aug. 1
Authorities report flooding in Eastern Region of Uganda Aug. 1. Fatalities reported.
Event
Flooding is occurring across the Eastern Region as of Aug. 1 due to heavy rainfall. Heavy rainfall on the slopes of Mount Elgon since late July 30 triggered landslides and caused several rivers in Mbale District, including the Nabuyonga and Namatala rivers, to burst their banks, forcing hundreds of residents to evacuate. The floods resulted in extensive property damage, especially in Namakwekwe and Mbale City. Kapchorwa, Mbale, and Sironko districts are the worst affected.
As of Aug. 1, authorities have confirmed 22 fatalities and 10 others have been seriously injured in Mbale District. A landslide in Kapchorwa District resulted in three other fatalities. Many more residents remain missing. The death toll is likely to rise as search and rescue operations progress. Authorities have advised residents to evacuate from affected areas.
Landslides across Bulambuli and Sironko districts have buried around 100 homes and cut off the Kamu-Buginyanye and Namisuni-Bufumbo roads in Bulambuli District; more than 500 people are homeless. Several other roads across the affected area, including the Mbale-Nkokonjeru and Mbale-Soroti roads, are impassable due to flooding and landslides.
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges and roadways impassable, impacting overland travel around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional roads. Authorities could temporarily close additional routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Out of an abundance of caution, confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel in the impact areas. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions. Do not drive on flooded roads.
