On Thursday, a hailstorm caused extensive damage to more than 200 households in Mogodes Town Council, Tororo District. The areas most affected by this unfortunate event include Orago ‘A and B’, Kiporo, Ginnry, Kipirio, Agogomiti, Kamarinyang North and South in Ginnery, and Tuba wards.
According to Yafesi Okiror, the LC1 chairperson of Orago ‘B’ cell, the hailstorm persisted for approximately two hours, resulting in the destruction of numerous crops such as beans, banana plantations, maize, soya beans, and potatoes. Most of these crops were nearly ready for harvest. Okiror expressed concerns about potential food shortages and the adverse impact on livelihoods.
For 72-year-old Berita Auyat, who lost the roof of her only house, life has become difficult. She appealed for support from the government and other well-wishers to assist her in this challenging time.
Timothy Emelait, the Gombolola Security Officer for Magodes Town Council, noted that many affected families have become homeless and are seeking shelter in churches. Magodes Town Council’s vice-chairperson, Aurthur Nyapidi, is coordinating with village leaders to assess the extent of the damage, which will be reported to district authorities for possible inclusion in food relief efforts.
As of Friday morning, no fatalities had been reported, a relief for the community. Nyapidi expressed gratitude for the preservation of lives but emphasized the need for support in the form of materials like iron sheets, food, and planting materials to help the affected residents rebuild their lives.
In mid-2023, authorities had warned of the possibility of severe rains affecting some parts of Uganda.
