Flash floods have caused the loss of at least five lives in Uganda over the past week, as reported by the police.
The heavy rains have led to flooding and property damage in various regions of the country.
During a press conference in Kampala, police spokesperson Mr. Fred Enanga identified one of the victims as an 8-year-old girl named Linda Nabukwasi, a student at Fright Care Junior School in Nakuwadde, Wakiso District. She was swept away by running water while attempting to cross a large trench on her way home. Her body was later found in Kireka Swamp.
Another incident took place in Kiduku Village, Kanyasi Parish, Kasese District, where 38-year-old Mbambu Kelejia drowned in Nyamuruge Sege stream while returning home at around 7:30 pm. Her body was recovered in Nyamugasani River.
The third victim, Robinah Namagembe, lost her life when loose soil collapsed at a stone quarry in Dyango village, Nakawuka-Kajjansi Town Council.
The fourth victim, Silver Orepot, a 13-year-old boy, drowned in Ompiyayi village, East Kyoga, Soroti District, while swimming in a swamp.
To address the rising number of drowning incidents, the police have issued safety guidelines for the public to follow during heavy rains. They emphasize the need for caution and prevention to avoid loss of life during this rainy season.
The guidelines include advising people living in low-lying areas or near streams to be vigilant and consider evacuating to safer, higher grounds when water levels rise. Motorists are cautioned against driving through flowing water due to the unpredictability of road and bridge conditions during heavy rains.
Additionally, the public is urged to avoid standing under trees during storms and to vacate riverbanks and lake shores. Weak structures, especially in low-lying areas, ghettos, and slums, are at risk of destruction.
The Uganda National Meteorological Authority previously warned of heavy rains expected to continue until December.
Members of the public have voiced their concerns and support for these safety measures. Irene Namutebi, a Kampala resident, urged parents to closely supervise their children during the rainy season. Simon Okello, a Wakiso District resident, emphasized the importance of following government directives to protect lives.