Residents of Bugamba Village in Rwampara East Constituency are grappling with extensive damage after a violent rainstorm struck the area on Tuesday, leaving homes, farmlands, and school infrastructure devastated.
The storm, accompanied by gale-force winds and hailstones, flattened several acres of banana plantations—the main source of livelihood for local farmers—raising concerns over potential food insecurity.
The strongest impact was at Bugamba Integrated Primary School, where the roof of a major classroom block was blown off, leaving Nursery and Primary One sections exposed to the elements.
In addition, vehicles parked under trees were crushed by falling branches, and other property suffered significant damage. Witnesses described chaos as winds shattered windscreens and twisted car frames.
Richard Owomugasho, the Rwampara District LC 5 chairman, said the storm was unusually intense.
“It happened so fast and short-lived at night. The wind was rotating with such force that the trees didn't stand a chance. We are just grateful that the children were moved to safety before the roof was carried away,” he said.
Owomugasho visited the affected areas and appealed to the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) for emergency relief, including iron sheets, food supplies, and temporary shelter materials.
“The scale of the destruction is beyond our local budget's capacity. Our farmers have lost their food and income, and our children have lost their classrooms. We need the government to intervene swiftly to prevent further suffering,” he added.
As the community begins clearing fallen trees and salvaging property, concerns remain over continued seasonal rains and the uncertainty facing displaced pupils at Bugamba Integrated Primary School.