Over 10 houses have been severely damaged by heavy rains in Kahendero landing site, in Muhokya town council in Kasese district. The downpour, accompanied by strong winds, disrupted fishing activities at the landing site on Monday for an extended period.
Alube Juma, the local council one Chairperson for the area, confirmed that the intense rainfall, along with gusty winds last night, resulted in the collapse of several houses. Roofs were blown off, and an unspecified number of domestic animals and birds lost their lives.
Juma urgently called upon the central government to provide support to the affected families. He expressed concerns that the community may face further challenges, including potential wildlife encounters, as they are situated near a national park.
Wesley Kiiza Rumanyika, whose five children sustained injuries during the incident, recounted that they were assisted by neighbors, with additional support from both the UPDF (Uganda People’s Defense Force) and the police, to evacuate their collapsing home.
Grace Kabona, 50, lamented the loss of five goats when the shed they were sheltering in collapsed during the heavy rainfall. She also revealed that the remaining structures have been weakened, making them susceptible to further damage should more rain occur.
In response to the ongoing weather challenges, local leaders in the district are urging residents in disaster-prone areas to consider relocating as the region continues to experience heavy rainfall.
Richard Bomera, the Bulembia Division LC III Chairperson, emphasized the need for communities, particularly those living in mountainous and river-adjacent areas, to vacate their current locations given the anticipated continuation of heavy rains.
He also appealed to the government to extend assistance to individuals and families in the resettlement process.
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