Devastating floods and landslides hit Rwanda and Uganda

Rwanda and Uganda have been hit by devastating floods and landslides over the past days, resulting in more than 130 fatalities so far.

Furthermore, both countries have been experiencing heavy rainfall since March, while Ruanda has been affected the most.

Authorities reported that as of Wednesday, at least 129 people had lost their lives in Rwanda and an additional 6 in Uganda.

In Rwanda, the Western and Northern provinces have been hit the worst, with floods and landslides occurring on May 2 and 3.

François Habitegeko, governor of Rwanda’s Western Province stated that “Our main priority now is to reach every house that has been damaged to ensure we can rescue any person who may be trapped”. However, he said that rain induced landslides have caused roads to be closed in the area. Characteristically, the Rwanda National Police reports that the Mukamira-Ngororero and Rubavu-Rutsiro roads are practically impassable.

The Rwandan Meteorology Agency had issued a relevant statement about above-average rainfall expected in the country during the first 10 days of May. They also claimed that climate change plays a part in the unusual rains observed in the area during recent years.

As for Uganda, heavy rains have been causing floods and landslides since April 24. More specifically, several incidents of landslides have been reported between May 1 and 3, leaving a house severely damaged on top of the loss of life.