More than 20 pupils injured as lightning strikes two schools

On Monday morning, over 20 students at Fafi and Bhamala Primary Schools were hospitalized following lightning strikes at both schools. At Fafi Primary School, a lightning bolt struck a tree during lessons, resulting in three students being rushed to Zhombe Mission Hospital. They were treated and subsequently discharged.

At Bhamala Primary School, another lightning bolt struck a tree on the same day, injuring 20 students and a teacher. Three students and a teacher with burns were referred to Kwekwe General Hospital for further treatment.

Mr. Fortune Mpungu, Chairperson of the Kwekwe District Civil Protection Unit, confirmed the incident and mentioned that they were still evaluating the situation. Mr. Hebert Maziriri, Kwekwe District School Inspector, also verified the incident but stated he was awaiting reports from the schools.

Mr. Farai Machaya, CEO of Zibagwe Rural District Council, explained that the lightning struck trees rather than classrooms, and those injured were outside when the lightning hit, causing burns. The majority of the injured individuals were treated and released, but three students and a teacher remained at Kwekwe General Hospital for ongoing treatment.

This incident occurred a few weeks after a hailstorm caused widespread damage in the district, uprooting trees and impacting infrastructure. The heavy rains and thunder associated with the hailstorm resulted in multiple injuries and infrastructure destruction.