The Impact of Rising Water Levels and Status of Encroachment on Key Catchment Areas of Lake Victoria скачать в хорошем качестве

The Impact of Rising Water Levels and Status of Encroachment on Key Catchment Areas of Lake Victoria

In March 2020, the Uganda National Meteorological Authority issued a seasonal weather forecast that predicted near normal to above normal rainfall in several parts of the country. The increased rainfall subsequently caused a rise in water levels and flooding. By 21st May 2020, the water level of Lake Victoria was 13.45 meters which is 5 centimetres above the previous historical maximum level of 13.40 meters recorded in 1964. In addition to the above normal intense rains, rising water levels have also been attributed to environmental degradation through human activities such as deforestation, encroachment on wetlands, lakeshores and river banks; unsustainable land use practices, urbanization and the increased the number of built up areas which interferes the infiltration of water into the soil, leading to increased surface runoff, soil erosion, siltation and flash flooding. This prompted a progressive release of water through River Nile in Jinja to to 2400 cubic meters per second in order to balance inflows with outflows. Despite this intervention, the water level of lake has continued to rise. The increased water release at the Nile has also led to a rise in the water levels of Lake Kyoga and Lake Albert resulting in flooding around these lakes. As of 21st May 2020, the Lake Kyoga water level had exceeded its historical maximum recorded of 13.25 meters in 1964. The rising water levels have resulted in submersion of some small islands; and dislodging of loose vegetation that has caused a spike in the number of floating islands on the major lakes and on River Nile. The increased water levels have destroyed property, disrupted livelihoods and interfered with the operations of major investments like hospitals, water supply and sanitation systems, schools, hydropower stations, tourism, and water transport infrastructures like ferries, roads and bridges. Flooding is now rampant around the shores of Lake Victoria, Lake Kyoga, Lake Albert and the Nile system. In addition, rivers in the Rwenzori, Kigezi and Elgon regions have started bursting their banks causing flash floods and landslides. The people living in the low lying districts of Amolatar, Amuru, Apac, Buyende, Dokolo, Kaberamaido, Kayunga, Kaliro, Kiryandongo, Kwania, Nakasongola, Oyam, Pallisa, Serere, Soroti, Buliisa, Ntoroko and Hoima have also experienced floods.