Two children died when torrential rains pounded Musheri Sector in Nyagatare District on Saturday. Four other people sustained injuries while property worth millions was destroyed.It is unfortunate that after a prolonged spell of dry season, the rainy season has set in with such havoc instead of blessings.Although the earlier weather forecast ruled out likely heavy floods usually synonymous with the rainy season, people in high risk areas should have relocated before the onset of the rains. Many of such people have previously been urged to move to safer areas as a precautionary measure. Some are adamant.Unless this advice is heeded, we might see more people losing their lives. The rains are likely to increase and, with climate change taking its toll on our planet, it is increasingly difficult to predict rainfall intensity.Even if your place of aboard is not classified in high risk zones but is still susceptible to floods, you are better off relocating until the end of the rainy season. People living in high risk areas should move immediately to safer areas.In the previous rainy season, floods claimed lives and destroyed houses and property. This cycle can’t go on. It must stop. And for motorists, if rain finds you in an area prone to floods don’t force your way through the raging water. It will tragically sweep you away.Disasters from floods can be avoided or minimised if we all take precautionary measures.
