General

Government Issues Heavy Rainfall and Flash Flood Alert Across Uganda

Mathias Kirunda

The Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) has issued a nationwide weather advisory warning of heavy rainfall and a high risk of flash floods across several regions of Uganda.

According to the advisory, the alert is effective from February 19 to February 28, 2026, and will primarily affect Western Uganda, Central Uganda — particularly the Lake Victoria Basin — and Eastern Uganda, especially the Elgon and Bukedi regions.

The government has urged the public to “be prepared and take action to ensure safety” as the country braces for intensified rainfall activity during the period.

Expected Impacts

Authorities warn that the heavy rains could result in:

  • Flash floods in low-lying and flood-prone areas

  • Urban flooding in major towns and cities, including Kampala

  • Disruptions to transport and businesses

  • Landslides, mudslides, and rockfalls in mountainous areas such as Mount Elgon and the Kigezi region

  • Strong winds and hailstorms

The advisory notes that urban centers may experience significant drainage challenges, potentially affecting movement and economic activity.

Safety Measures in Flood-Prone Areas

Residents in flood-prone communities have been advised not to cross flooded roads and bridges. The OPM also called on households and businesses to clear drainage channels around their premises to allow proper water flow.

Local authorities have been instructed to inspect high-risk zones and provide timely guidance to residents.

Landslide Risk in Hilly Regions

Communities living on steep slopes, particularly in the Mount Elgon and Kigezi areas, have been urged to remain vigilant. The advisory highlights early warning signs of landslides, including cracks in the soil and leaning trees.

Residents are encouraged to avoid cultivation and construction on unstable slopes and to activate contingency plans through local disaster response structures.

Mapped and registered households in high-risk zones have been advised to evacuate if signs of imminent landslides appear. Any warning signs should be reported to local authorities or to the National Emergency Coordination and Operations Centre (NECOC) via the toll-free line 0800177777.

General Advisory to Farmers and the Public

Farmers have been encouraged to take advantage of the rains to prepare gardens for early planting of food crops and fruit trees. Officials say this could help improve household nutrition and restore degraded land.

The public has also been warned to secure loose roofing and avoid sheltering under isolated trees during thunderstorms.

The Office of the Prime Minister, working with the Department of Meteorological Services, said it will continue monitoring weather conditions and provide updates as necessary.

The government reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, urging all Ugandans to stay informed and adhere to safety guidance during the advisory period.