Strong winds, heavy rains destroy property in northern region

Strong winds and heavy rains have destroyed property in northern region districts of Mzimba, Rumphi and Chitipa.

The winds blew off roofs of some houses and school blocks in Mzimba and Rumphi while over 20 houses were destroyed by stormy rains in the area of Senior Chief Mwenewenya in Chitipa.

In Mzimba among other destroyed structures include Baula Primary School which is one of the voter registration centres in Mzimba North East Constituency.

Confirming the incident, District Elections Officer for Mzimba North, Demeria Rocha said the situation led to temporal suspension of voter registration exercise at the centre but assured the situation is under control.

According to Medical Officer for Mzimba North District Health Office, Shadreck Mzima Ngwira, health personnel have already been alerted to monitor the situation and establish the cause of the disease.

Primary Education Advisor (PEA) for Mzokoto Education Zone, Tamara Mkandawire said that a block that housed two classes including the school’s deputy head teacher’s house had their roofs blown off.

Miriam Mtumbuka, PEA for Luviri Education Zone in which Fyolonga Primary School is located, said that there is urgent need for rehabilitation of the school block for classes to return to normal.

Chief Education Officer for Rumphi, Emmanuel Mwalirino said that his office was assessing the situation.

Councillor for Wenya Ward who is also Chairperson for Chitipa District Council, Ronald Kayira, said that the area received heavy rains accompanied by strong winds resulting in destruction of some houses.

Disaster Risk Management Officer for Chitipa District Council, Mphatso Nedson said that his office has received reports from Wenya Area Disaster Risk Management Committee (ADRMC) concerning the disaster that has hit the area.