By Godfrey Olukya </p> <p>KAMPALA, Uganda (AA) – At least 20 people have been killed in eastern Ugandan district of Buyende after their homes were destroyed by a heavy rainstorm, officials said.</p> <p>“Three sub-counties of Buyende district were last night hit by a heavy rainstorm which destroyed over 200 houses. Over 20 people died after being hit by debris from destroyed houses,” William Kiiza, leader of Buyende district, told Anadolu Agency.</p> <p>He said the heavy rains came after a long spell of drought, which led to the drying of food crops.</p> <p>Steven Wagumale, chairman of Kidera, one of the affected sub-county, said: “It started raining heavily at 8.00 p.m. local time (1700GMT) and it lasted for 3 hours. By the time the rain stopped, wailing and cries could be heard in the village.”</p> <p>He said that over 200 people were also injured in different rain-related incidents.</p> <p>''We appeal to the government to help us with shelter and food. Our houses and food crops have been destroyed and we urgently need assistance,'' said Gregory Wanyama, a resident in the area whose house was destroyed.</p> <p>Environmentalists in Uganda have often warned Ugandans against cutting down trees in order to make charcoal saying it would bring about wild winds and hailstorm during rainy seasons.