Heavy rains wreak havoc in Hanang, leaving five dead and homes destroyed

Manyara.  Torrential rains have caused widespread devastation in Hanang District, Manyara Region, claiming the lives of five individuals and injuring 12 others.

The unprecedented downpour triggered extensive flooding, submerging homes and leaving an unknown number of people missing.

Manyara Regional Commissioner Queen Sendiga confirmed the fatalities and commended the rescue team led by the fire and rescue force for their swift response.

The injured are currently receiving treatment at Hanang Tumaini District Hospital.

Ms Sendiga expressed concern over the ongoing search and rescue operations, noting that the situation remains fluid due to the continued heavy rainfall.

She underscored the importance of prioritizing the safety of residents and providing immediate assistance to those affected.

The chairperson of the Hanang District Council, Ms. Rose Kamili, likened the impact of the rains to the aftermath of a volcanic eruption, highlighting the severity of the landslides and the destruction caused to homes.

"The landslides are big, stones, rocks, big trees and mud have destroyed many houses, we have not been able to get there because the situation is not stable, there is no access," Ms. Kamili stated.

She further elaborated on the damage in the areas of Katesh and Gedan'gonyi, where houses have been buried under mud, trees, and stones.

Hanang District Commissioner Ms Janeth Mayanja urged residents to exercise caution and assist those affected by the floods.

She commended the ongoing rescue efforts and emphasized the importance of prioritizing the well-being of the community.

Manyara Regional Police Commander, George Katabazi, confirmed his presence enroute to the scene of the disaster.

Hamis Juma, a resident of Jorodom in Hanang district, recounted the tragic loss of a woman who was swept away by floodwaters, leaving her children unaccounted for.

"People have died, and others have climbed on the roofs of houses, and buses passing through Arusha to Singida have failed to continue their journey," he explained.

Amina Ally, a traveller on the Arusha-Singida road, expressed the need to postpone her journey due to the severe weather conditions.

The Hanang community is grappling with the aftermath of this devastating rainfall, and the full extent of the damage is yet to be determined.

Authorities continue to prioritize search and rescue operations, while providing essential support to those affected by the floods.