News / National
Tsholotsho boy killed by lightning
28 Nov 2024 at 06:47hrs | Views
A boy from Mabhandeni Line in Mlangisa Village, Tsholotsho, lost his life after being struck by lightning during a heavy thunderstorm on Sunday evening.
The tragic incident occurred as the boy and four friends sought shelter under a tree while drawing water from a community borehole. The lightning struck the tree first, resulting in the fatality.
Ward 4 Councillor Gift Tshuma confirmed the incident, revealing that another boy sustained head injuries from the lightning strike.
"On Sunday, we received a thunderstorm at 6 PM, and an hour later, someone came to my house informing me of the incident. The lightning struck a tree first before hitting the boy," Councillor Tshuma said.
Further Damage from the Storm
The storm also caused significant damage in Malila Village, where a homestead caught fire after being struck by lightning. The owners of the affected home are reportedly based in South Africa, and no injuries were reported in that incident.
Police Await Official Report
Matabeleland North provincial police spokesperson Inspector Glory Banda stated that the police had not yet received an official report regarding the boy's death.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the Tsholotsho community, highlighting the dangers of seeking shelter under trees during thunderstorms. Authorities are urging residents to take extra precautions during the rainy season.
Efforts are underway to assist the affected families and ensure community awareness of lightning safety measures.
The tragic incident occurred as the boy and four friends sought shelter under a tree while drawing water from a community borehole. The lightning struck the tree first, resulting in the fatality.
Ward 4 Councillor Gift Tshuma confirmed the incident, revealing that another boy sustained head injuries from the lightning strike.
"On Sunday, we received a thunderstorm at 6 PM, and an hour later, someone came to my house informing me of the incident. The lightning struck a tree first before hitting the boy," Councillor Tshuma said.
Further Damage from the Storm
Police Await Official Report
Matabeleland North provincial police spokesperson Inspector Glory Banda stated that the police had not yet received an official report regarding the boy's death.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the Tsholotsho community, highlighting the dangers of seeking shelter under trees during thunderstorms. Authorities are urging residents to take extra precautions during the rainy season.
Efforts are underway to assist the affected families and ensure community awareness of lightning safety measures.
Source - newsday
