Residents described harrowing experiences as the storm tore off roofs, collapsed walls, and uprooted trees, plunging the lakeside town into chaos. Among those hardest hit was Shaipuma Soki, whose home was completely unroofed. “The heavy wind came along with rain, blowing off the rooftop of my house. Luckily, my neighbor’s house was safe, and we sought refuge on their veranda,” Soki recounted.
Another resident, Twaha Baluku, sustained injuries while attempting to salvage belongings from his collapsing home. “The wind was too strong. It blew off the roof in seconds, and debris hit me on the arm,” he said, showing his bandaged limb. The storm has left many households stranded; some families are sleeping outdoors while others have sought shelter with neighbors.
Local leaders are now appealing for urgent government intervention to assist those affected. Gideon Mujungu, Member of Parliament for Busongora South, expressed deep concern over the crisis. “This storm has left hundreds of my constituents in dire need. We urge the government to establish temporary shelters and provide relief items such as food, blankets, and other essentials,” he stated.As the community begins to assess the damage and plan for recovery, humanitarian organizations and well-wishers are being called upon to assist in rebuilding efforts.