Heavy Rains Paralyse Traffic in Kampala as Floodwaters Cover Major Roads

KAMPALA, Uganda — Heavy rains that pounded Kampala early Thursday morning flooded several roads and disrupted the morning commute, leaving motorists stranded and traffic moving slowly in different parts of the city.

Some of the worst flooding was reported along Port Bell Road in Nakawa, where sections of the road near commercial areas were submerged following the downpour.

Motorists driving sport utility vehicles (SUVs) managed to wade through the floodwaters, but smaller vehicles such as Toyota Vitz and Toyota Ractis struggled to pass through the affected sections, forcing traffic to crawl.

Several commuters turned to radio stations and social media to warn others about the flooding, with some urging people who had not yet left home to delay their journeys until water levels receded.

No casualties were reported, but the flooding once again highlighted Kampala’s persistent challenges during the rainy season, including clogged drainage channels, poor waste disposal, and rapid urban expansion.

Authorities at the Kampala Capital City Authority say efforts are ongoing to improve drainage systems across the city.

The authority has in recent months intensified activities such as desilting drainage channels and constructing new water crossings to reduce flooding in vulnerable areas.

However, many residents continue to express frustration, saying poor waste management, particularly the dumping of plastic waste into drainage channels, remains a major contributor to the recurring floods.

Despite the disruption, some residents reacted with humour online, sharing photos and comments about navigating flooded streets.

Kampala this morning!

Owa Vitz, Ractis, Sienta, Raum, stay home 🙏 pic.twitter.com/6tClYH8QGi

— 100.2 Galaxy FM Zzina! (@GalaxyFMUg) March 5, 2026

Weather forecasts indicate that more rainfall is expected in the coming days, raising concerns about further flooding in low-lying parts of the city.