A devastating lightning strike claimed the life of a young boy from Mabhandeni Line in Mlangisa Village, Tsholotsho, during a severe thunderstorm on Sunday evening.
The tragic event unfolded when the boy, accompanied by four of his friends, sought refuge under a tree while attempting to draw water from a community borehole.
Councillor Gift Tshuma confirmed that the lightning initially struck the tree, which then resulted in the boy’s fatal !njury.
In addition to the tragic death, another boy was reported to have sustained head injur!es from the lightning strike but is recovering.
The thunderstorm hit the area around 6 PM, and the community quickly realized the severity of the situation, with news of the incident reaching the councillor shortly thereafter.
The storm was not limited to this incident; it also wreaked havoc in Malila Village, where a homestead caught fire after being struck by lightning.
Thankfully, no one was !njured in that incident, as the homeowners were reportedly residing in South Africa at the time.
The community’s fears and grief have been compounded by the stark reminder of the dangers posed when seeking shelter under trees during thunderstorms.
Provincial police spokesperson Inspector Glory Banda indicated that authorities are still awaiting an official report on the boy’s d3ath, but the urgency for increased awareness and safety measures is already apparent.
Local officials and community leaders are mobilizing efforts to support the affected families while also urging residents to take necessary precautions during the rainy season.
SOURCE : NEWSREPORTZIM.COM
