Hailstorm destroys schools, MSU hostels

Gweru (The Times-New Ziana) – Heavy rains accompanied by hailstorms left a trail of destruction at four schools in Lower Gweru and Midlands State University hostels recently, officials have said.

But no deaths or injuries were reported in the affected areas.

Though efforts to get a comment from the Civil Protection Unit were fruitless, officials at the Gweru District Administrator’s office confirmed that four schools in Lower Gweru were hit.

“We can confirm that there are four schools that were affected by the violent storms that occurred this week in the country as per the Meteological Services’ Department prediction and these schools are in Lower Gweru,” said the official.

He said the Civil Protection Unit is on the ground to ensure that those affected got help as soon as possible.

The storm is also said to have blown off roofs at the Wadzanai hostel at Midlands State University on Tuesday.

Repairs to the hostels began immediately.

The Meteorological Services Department recently warned of heavy storms accompanied by damaging winds, lightning, hail and flash flooding that could destroy infrastructure.

The Ministry of Local Government, through the Provincial Administrator’s office, was giving assistance to affected families.

The Times-New Ziana