By Johannah Nantongo
KAMPALA — Two people have died in separate rain-related incidents in the Kampala Metropolitan Area, while flooding damaged property in several locations following a heavy downpour on Sunday, October 11, police have confirmed.
One of the victims was an unidentified man estimated to be between 22 and 28 years old. His body was retrieved from a drainage trench in Bulabira Zone, where police suspect he was swept away by floodwater during the rains.
In another incident in Ttuba Zone, Kyanja Parish, a 25-year-old woman identified as Jalia Nameere died after a perimeter wall reportedly collapsed onto the rented room where she was staying.
Police said the two bodies were taken to the mortuary for postmortem examinations as investigations into the circumstances surrounding the deaths continued.
Authorities have appealed to families searching for a missing man matching the description of the unidentified victim to contact Najjera Police Station to assist with identification.
The downpour also left a trail of property damage in other parts of the metropolitan area. In Kiganda Zone, Kireka, police retrieved a red TVS motorcycle bearing registration number UFG 529A from floodwater.
In Mbalwa, flooding destroyed a perimeter wall belonging to Mark Lwanga and damaged his Toyota Sienta, registration number UBH 630P.
Police said officers visited the affected locations, recorded the incidents and began inquiries into the reported deaths and property damage.
The incidents have once again highlighted the risks associated with heavy rainfall in urban communities, where flooding, exposed drainage channels and structurally weak buildings can pose serious threats to residents.
Police have urged the public to exercise caution during heavy rains, warning people against entering flooded roads, trenches and drainage channels or attempting to cross fast-moving water on foot or in vehicles.
Residents have also been advised to maintain a safe distance from walls and buildings that may be structurally compromised. Property owners have been encouraged to inspect their structures for weaknesses and take preventive measures, particularly during periods of persistent rainfall.