Family loses three in Uganda landslide

Three siblings have been confirmed dead in Uganda's Kasese district following new landslides which have razed villages in the western parts of the country. Four other people have gone missing in the country's Buhuhira sub-county following heavy rains on Nov 24.

According to Irene Nakasiita, the Uganda Red Cross Society spokesperson, the latest landslide deaths bring the total to 15 within one year. The deaths were also confirmed by Geoffrey Bigogo, the Kasese district chairperson.

Nakasiita added the government is offering support to the affected family, and search teams and rescue operations for the missing people are underway on the ground.

"It's unfortunate a family lost children in the landslide. The three kids that had been trapped under the rubble were found dead. The house is completely down and the family together with other affected community members, have camped at Kinyamagana Full Gospel Church. The bodies of the deceased are at the same venue," Nakasiita said.

The Uganda National Meteorological Authority warned of heightened rainfall over several parts of the country that could cause disasters such as landslides and floods, leading to loss of life and destruction of property.

Several parts of the East African country, especially western and eastern regions, continue to experience normal to above normal rainfall, with destructive effects, the weather department reported.