Seasonal rains: Govt warns of flood, landslide and disease risks

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Relief, disaster preparedness and refugees state minister Eng. Hilary Onek has urged Ugandans to prepare for potential hazards during the country’s first seasonal rains, following the release of the March–April–May (MAM) 2026 Seasonal Rainfall Outlook by the Ministry of Water and Environment.

In a statement issued March 4, 2026, Onek says the Government expects near-average rainfall across most parts of Uganda. However, some areas, including the northwestern region, areas around Lake Victoria, and parts of eastern Uganda, may experience near to above-average rainfall during this period. Temperatures are also expected to be generally warmer than normal.

Areas expected to receive higher rainfall

Near- to above-average rainfall is anticipated in:

West Nile, Lango, Rwenzori, Kigezi, some parts of Acholi, Bugisu, Bukedi, Teso, and Buganda.

Near-average rainfall is expected in:

Ankole, Karamoja, parts of Busoga, Bunyoro, and Buganda.

Anticipated disaster risks

Authorities have identified several risks linked to the seasonal forecast:

• Flooding and waterlogging: Low-lying areas and lower slopes of Mount Elgon—including Butaleja, Rubanda, Kisoro, Amuru, Obongi, Pakwach, Kayunga, Kalungu, Rakai, Kitgum, Otuke, Lamwo, Serere, Bukedea, and Kasese—may face infrastructure damage and livelihood losses.
• Flash floods: Major urban centres, including Kampala, may experience transport and business disruptions.
• Landslides and mudslides: Highland areas of Elgon, Rwenzori, and Kigezi are at risk.
• Hailstorms and strong winds: Early rains may affect Kibaale, Sembabule, Ibanda, Buvuma, Kalangala, Bukomansimbi, Isingiro, Mbarara, Mitooma, and Tororo.
• Health risks: Increased incidence of waterborne diseases (cholera, typhoid, dysentery, malaria), livestock diseases, crop pests such as Fall Army Worm, and lightning strikes in Kisoro, Lamwo, Bushenyi, Ntungamo, Nwoya, Amuru, Busia, and Bugiri.

Preparedness measures

To enhance resilience, the Government says it has:

• Completed household registration and procured land for resettlement of high-risk communities in the Elgon sub-region.
• Disseminated the MAM 2026 forecast at regional level.
• Strengthened community disaster risk management in collaboration with the Uganda Red Cross Society.
• Procured relief food for potentially affected communities.
• Shared early warning information through media channels.

Public advisory

Minister Onek urged communities and authorities to:

1. Share early warning messages widely.
2. Activate district contingency plans, particularly in hotspot areas.
3. Clear and maintain urban drainage channels.
4. Monitor water levels in lakes and rivers.
5. Implement safety measures for rescue operations on major lakes and rivers.
6. Temporarily relocate communities on steep highland slopes where necessary.
7. Avoid crossing flooded roads; drive carefully during rainy conditions.
8. Harvest and store animal feed in preparation for adverse weather.
9. Practice good sanitation and mosquito control to prevent disease.
10. Trim tree branches near buildings and cover open manholes in urban areas.
11. Take advantage of above-average rainfall for water harvesting and food production.

Onek emphasised that government monitoring of rainfall patterns will continue and called on District Disaster Management Committees to intensify community sensitisation and early warning actions. He also thanked development partners supporting Uganda’s disaster preparedness and mitigation efforts.