A powerful thunderstorm tore through Kalangala Island on Saturday morning, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.
The storm, which struck at approximately 7:21 AM, claimed the lives of at least four people, including a police officer, and injured 13 others. More than 300 homes were destroyed, and the Central Police Station partially collapsed, worsening the crisis for residents in the already vulnerable island district.
Authorities have identified one of the deceased as Detective Sergeant Michael Mujasi, while efforts are still underway to confirm the identities of the other victims. Rescue operations are ongoing as local leaders assess the extent of the damage
The increasing frequency and intensity of such storms have raised concerns about environmental degradation in Kalangala. Local leaders point to rampant deforestation, particularly for palm oil plantations and timber, as a key factor contributing to changing weather patterns. Without sufficient tree cover, the island is left exposed to the full force of storms, causing more severe damage to infrastructure and communities.
“This is not the first time we are experiencing such a disaster, but the situation is getting worse. We have warned against deforestation, but little has been done to address it,” said a local leader.
The disaster has also put the government’s disaster preparedness and response strategies under the spotlight. Critics argue that the authorities have been slow to implement measures to protect residents from such calamities. Many survivors are now left without shelter, food, or access to basic services, with no immediate relief in sight.
“The government must take urgent steps to improve disaster preparedness, provide emergency relief, and address the environmental factors contributing to these deadly storms,” said environmental activist Samuel Kafeero.
As families mourn their loved ones and the community begins to rebuild, the storm serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for action against climate change, deforestation, and weak disaster management systems.
