A HAILSTORM that hit parts of Zhombe in Kwekwe District left a trail of destruction, blowing off roofs at two schools in the area.
Although the hailstorm hit during lessons, no injuries were recorded.
Simana Secondary and St Joseph Primary schools were left counting losses after the destruction caused by the hailstorms which occurred at different times.
Kwekwe District Civil Protection Unit chairperson, Mr Fortune Mpungu confirmed the incident.
He said St Joseph Primary School was hit by a hailstorm last week on Wednesday while the incident at Simana Secondary School occurred earlier last month.
“St Joseph Primary experienced a hailstorm which also happened when students were in class, but there were no injuries recorded. Roofs were blown off and the estimated cost of property destroyed is valued at US$2 800,” said Mr Mpungu, who is also Kwekwe District Development Coordinator.
“On 10 October, a hailstorm ravaged through Simana Secondary and destroyed classroom blocks blowing off the roof in the process. The incident took place when classes were in session but we are thankful that there were no learners or teachers who were injured in the process.”
Mr Mpungu encouraged schools in the district to continuously inspect buildings and infrastructure to ensure that they are in good shape ahead of the rainy season.
“We are encouraging all school heads to inspect and maintain their buildings so that we avoid disasters when incidents like these take place. We need to be proactive rather than to be responsive in such cases because if we inspect our buildings, we might avoid the worst scenarios,” said Mr Mpungu.
He said there are so many incidents associated with the rainy season which needed to be avoided by any means necessary.
“The rainy season comes with a lot of situations. We therefore need to be on the lookout and it starts with ensuring that our structures are in good shape above all,” said Mr Mpungu. – The Chronicle
