Police have urged the public to avoid using electronic gadgets during thunderstorms to reduce the risk of being struck by lightning.
This warning follows a tragic incident at Chimurenga Mine in Vanguard, Mberengwa, last Wednesday, where three people were killed and five others injured by a lightning strike around 4 PM.
The deceased were identified as Simbarashe Chimombe (23), Clemence Mucheri (36) from Buhera, and Pardon Ncube (23) from Zvishavane.
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson for Midlands Province, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, confirmed the incident. He said:
<blockquote>
Police are appealing to the public to avoid the use of cellphones, landlines or any other electronic gadgets that may attract lightning during rains.
</blockquote>
The incident occurred when eight miners were constructing a wooden residential cabin at the mine, and it began to rain.
They sought shelter in a nearby wooden cabin, but lightning struck the cabin, killing three miners instantly and injuring five others.
Other miners quickly rushed to the cabin after hearing the survivors’ cries for help. The injured were taken to Mberengwa District Hospital, where they are reported to be in stable condition.

Pindula News

Three people died and five were hurt by lightning at a mine in Mberengwa. Police say don't use phones or electronics in a storm to stay safe. The victims were building a cabin when it started to rain. They went into another cabin for shelter, but lightning struck, killing three and injuring five. Rescue teams came to help. The injured are now in the hospital and doing okay. Be careful during storms and stay safe.

Three Dead, Five Injured In Lightning Strike At Mberengwa Mine

Three people were killed and three others seriously injured by a lightning bolt while seeking shelter from a thunderstorm in a shop at Vanguard Mine Shopping Centre in Mberengwa on Wednesday night.
Mberengwa District Development Coordinator Vafios Hlabati confirmed the tragic incident and urged the public to take necessary precautions to avoid lightning strikes.
During thunderstorms, it’s crucial to take safety measures. These include seeking shelter indoors, staying away from tall objects, and avoiding open fields, hilltops, or isolated trees, as lightning tends to strike the tallest objects in the area.
If caught outside with no shelter available, crouch down with your feet together, hands over your ears, and head between your knees—avoiding lying flat on the ground.
Also, refrain from swimming or taking a shower during a storm, and avoid contact with lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water.
Avoid touching metal objects like fences, pipes, and electrical appliances during a thunderstorm.
If you see lightning, count the seconds until you hear thunder. If it’s 30 seconds or less, the storm is within six miles, and you should seek shelter immediately. Remain indoors for at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap.
Unplug electronic devices to protect them from power surges caused by lightning.

Three people were killed by lightning at a mine in Mberengwa, Zimbabwe. Officials warn to take precautions during thunderstorms like seeking shelter indoors, staying away from tall objects, and not swimming or showering. If caught outside, crouch down with feet together and head between knees. Avoid touching metal objects and unplug electronics. If you see lightning, count the seconds until thunder—if it's 30 seconds or less, seek shelter immediately. Remember to stay indoors for at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap to stay safe.

Lightning Strike Kills Three At Vanguard Mine In Mberengwa

A 103-year-old grandmother, Mrs Loice Madzirerusa of Batsira Village, Marange, was tragically struck and killed by a lightning bolt while handling metal kitchen utensils in her kitchen hut during a thunderstorm early this month.
Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka, the acting spokesperson for the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in Manicaland Province, confirmed the incident to <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/lightning-bolt-kills-granny-103/">The Manica Post</a>.
He said Madzirerusa’s body was retrieved from the burning house by her relatives, who managed to prevent it from being severely charred. Said Chinyoka:
<blockquote>
On January 2, 2025, the deceased was weeding in her yard when a rainstorm began. She sought shelter in her kitchen hut and started arranging kitchen utensils, including metal cups and plates that were scattered around the room.
Tragically, a lightning bolt struck the hut’s roof, causing a fire. Mrs Winnie Ndoro (70), discovered the blaze and noticed that the deceased had fallen.
Mrs Ndoro and Ms Lynette Jera dragged the deceased to the main house. Ms Jera alerted other villagers, but upon gathering, they found that Mrs Madzirerusa had passed away.
Mrs Ndoro informed the police by phone, and police officers attended the scene. The body was taken to Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital for post-mortem.
</blockquote>
Chinyoka urged the public to prioritise safety during the rainy season, as rainstorms can produce deadly lightning and cause sudden, unexpected flooding, which can sweep away both people and vehicles. He said:
<blockquote>
People are encouraged to erect lightning conductors, avoid being in contact with metal objects, not to be in open spaces when it is raining.
We are urging members of the public to follow and adhere to these and other precautionary and safety measures as advised by experts.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A 103-year-old grandmother in Marange was killed by lightning while handling spoons in her kitchen during a thunderstorm. Her body was found by relatives in a burning house. Police confirmed the incident and urged people to be safe during the rainy season, as lightning and flooding can be dangerous. They advised to stay away from metal objects and open spaces during rain. It's important to take precautions to stay safe during bad weather.

103-Year-Old Grandmother Killed By Lightning While Handling Spoons In Marange

Parliament was plunged into darkness on Thursday as Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube was concluding his 2025 national budget speech, following an unexpected power outage.
As the lights went out, President Emmerson Mnangagwa was escorted out of the darkened chamber while Parliament’s backup generators took some time to kick in and restore power.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/parliament-blackout-caused-by-lightning-during-afternoon-storm-zesa/">ZimLive</a>, ZESA spokesperson George Manyaya dismissed claims that the blackout was caused by load shedding, attributing the power failure instead to lightning.
Manyaya said that Parliament is on a dedicated power line exempt from load shedding. He said:
<blockquote>
There was a storm in the parliament area and unfortunately lightning caused a temporary loss of power during the budget presentation.
It’s an act of nature and definitely not load shedding as is being suggested on social media.
</blockquote>
Zimbabweans are facing prolonged power cuts, with outages lasting up to 18 hours a day, as the country’s power utility, ZESA, struggles to meet the growing electricity demand.
The power shortages are being exacerbated by a combination of factors, including low water levels at the Kariba Dam, which have significantly reduced hydroelectric power generation.
As a result, ZESA has been forced to cut down on its output from Kariba, one of the country’s primary power sources.
Compounding the situation, Zimbabwe’s ageing thermal power stations, particularly the Hwange Power Station, have become increasingly unreliable due to outdated infrastructure and maintenance challenges.
According to data from ZESA’s subsidiary, the Zimbabwe Power Company, the country was generating only 1,083 MW of electricity on Wednesday, far below the national demand of approximately 2,000 MW.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZESA says lightning caused blackout in Parliament during budget speech. It was not load shedding. Zimbabwe is facing long power outages due to low water levels at Kariba Dam and unreliable thermal power stations. Country is not generating enough electricity to meet demand. ZESA struggling to provide power to everyone. President Mnangagwa had to be escorted out of dark chamber during blackout. Lightning caused temporary loss of power, not intentional cut. Situation worsened by old power stations not working properly. Country generating less electricity than needed.

ZESA Blames Lightning For Parliament Blackout

An elderly woman from Nemakonde in Chief Makore’s area, Gutu, is fortunate to be alive after a lightning strike destroyed her only hut on Wednesday, moments after she had left for a neighbour’s house.
65-year-old Mbuya Mary Nyamandi was left with nothing but the clothes on her back. Her daughter, Shingai Nyamandi, told <a href="https://masvingomirror.com/granny-loses-property-in-lightining-incident/">The Mirror</a> that all of Mbuya Nyamandi’s belongings were consumed by the fire.
Mbuya Nyamandi lives with her Grade 5 grandson, who also lost everything in the blaze, except for the school uniform he was wearing at the time. Said Shingai:
<blockquote>
My mother was at a neighbour’s place when the hut was gutted by fire from the lightning. She visited a neighbour a few minutes before the rain.
She noticed smoke coming from the direction of her homestead and that is when she discovered that her hut was on fire.
Lost in the fire are clothes, identity documents, blankets, furniture and foodstuffs.
</blockquote>
Mbuya Nyamandi’s husband, whom she had lived with in Bulawayo, passed away a few years ago. The fairly new hut had been built for her by her son.
In light of the tragedy, well-wishers are being encouraged to donate food, clothes, blankets, money, or building materials to help rebuild Mbuya Nyamandi’s home.
Her daughter, Shingai Nyamandi, can be contacted at 0783270671, or donations can be made through The Mirror Helpline at 0716895703 or 0775691380.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The lightning destroyed Granny's hut when she was not at home. She lost everything in the fire, including her clothes, documents, and food. Her grandson lost his belongings too, except for his school uniform. Granny's husband passed away, so she lived with her son who built the hut for her. People are now helping by donating food, clothes, money, and building materials to rebuild Granny's home. If anyone wants to donate, they can contact Granny's daughter or The Mirror Helpline. Granny is thankful for the help she is receiving.

Granny (65) Left with Nothing After Lightning Destroys Hut In Gutu

Tragedy struck a refugee camp in Uganda on Saturday evening when a lightning strike during a church service claimed the lives of 13 children and one adult, leaving another 34 people injured.
Kituuma Rusoke, spokesperson for the Uganda Police, confirmed to <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cly2qzrj9v7o">BBC News</a> that the deceased adult was 21 years old, but he did not disclose the specific ages of the children who lost their lives.
The incident occurred in the Palabek Refugee Settlement, which is home to over 80,000 refugees and asylum seekers, primarily from neighbouring South Sudan, according to the UN’s refugee agency.
This is not the first instance of such a tragedy in the region; four years ago, lightning struck in the city of Arua, also in northwestern Uganda, killing 10 children who were taking a break from a game of football.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

During a church service in Uganda, lightning struck and killed 14 people, including 13 children and one adult. 34 others were injured in the tragic incident at a refugee camp. The adult victim was 21 years old, but the ages of the children were not specified. The camp is home to over 80,000 refugees from South Sudan. This is not the first time such a tragedy has occurred in the region, as a similar incident happened four years ago in a different part of Uganda.

Lightning Strike Kills 14 People During Church Service In Uganda

A lightning bolt killed seven head of cattle in Chipinge at midday on Thursday, while a violent storm left a trail of destruction in Chipinge town.
The cattle belonged to Amos Ngazimbi of Lot 1 of Lelisvlei Farm in Clearwater, Chipinge.
Ngazimbi told <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/new-lightning-kills-7-cattle/">The Manica Post</a> that he was left with 25 beasts following the lightning strike. He said:
<blockquote>
It is a terrible loss to me. Losing my cattle like this is really painful. The incident occurred around 12-midday when we received unexpected rains.
There were no signs that a storm would hit us, but things changed over a short time.
My herdboy approached me while I was sitting in my house to inform me that a lightning bolt had struck and killed seven of my cattle. I was left with 25 beasts.
<img alt="Image" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GDkIB4tXoAALqoJ?format=jpg&amp;name=medium"/>
</blockquote>
During the violent storm, a huge tree collapsed on three vehicles that were parked in Chipinge’s CBD.
Lightning poses a threat to cattle and other livestock on pasture. Farmers can protect their animals from lightning by installing a lightning protection system, building shelters and enclosures at lower elevations, arranging pastures so that they contain rows of trees, not singles and keeping animals inside during lightning storms to minimize their exposure to lightning.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Lightning Bolt Kills 7 Cattle In Chipinge

The leader of <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Forever_Associates_Zimbabwe">Forever Associates Zimbabwe</a> (FAZ), Kudakwashe Munsaka lost three family members on Tuesday after they were struck by a bolt of lightning during a ferocious thunderstorm.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/thestandard/news/article/200018432/faz-leader-loses-3-family-members-in-lighting-strike">The Standard</a> on Saturday, Munsaka said his aunt and her two grandchildren were struck by lightning in Binga, Matabeleland North Province. He said:
<blockquote>
It’s actually a tragedy that befell the people of Binga in Chabwidi village under Chief Siabuwa, particularly my family.
It was the eve of the 18th around 11 pm.
My aunt Belitha Munkuli (79) with her grandchildren; Meekness Munkuli (11) and Accept Bulemu (5) and a neighbour Rudo Muzamba were struck by lightning.
They were sleeping in a thatched hut and lightning struck and burnt the hut.
Neighbours tried to come and rescue them, but they failed as they had locked the door from inside. So this takes our death toll to four.
</blockquote>
FAZ is a ZANU PF-affiliated group reportedly with links to the Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO).
The group rose to prominence during the ZANU PF primary elections held in March 2023 and its notoriety deepened during the August Harmonised Elections when its members were allegedly involved in voter intimidation, especially in the rural areas.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

FAZ Leader Loses 3 Relatives In Lightning Strike

Four siblings were burnt to death after a grass-thatched hut they were sleeping in was struck by a bolt of lightning in Buhera District on 16 October.
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the incident which occurred around 2 AM at Hara Village in Murambinda. He said:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the death of four siblings, Wilfred Hara (9 months), Melinda Hara (5), Michael Hara (5), and Marvis Hara (11) after the thatched hut they were sleeping in with their mother, Evernice Takaedzwa (31) was struck by a bolt of lightning resulting in the hut catching fire on 16th October 2023 at around 0200 hours at Hara Village, Murambinda, Buhera.
Evernice Takaedzwa escaped and sought assistance from neighbours while the victims were trapped inside the hut. Villagers failed to put out the fire resulting in the victims being burnt to death in the inferno.
The bodies were later retrieved from the hut through an opening created on the wall.
</blockquote>
Asst Comm Nyathi said on the same day, in Chireya, Gokwe District, a male infant, Elvis Sikhosana (2) was killed by a hailstorm. He added:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Republic Police is deeply saddened by the loss of life. As the rainy season approaches, we implore the public to follow lightning safety tips such as avoiding being in open spaces and hiding under tall structures like trees while it is raining.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Four Buhera Siblings Burnt To Death Following Lightning Strike; Gokwe Toddler Killed By Hailstorm

An Awake Grace Ministries Church building in Chinhoyi was completely destroyed by fire after being struck by lightning on Saturday night.
However, some of the equipment, such as chairs and a PA system were saved.
Church leader, Pastor Nicholas Mavhondo, confirmed the incident to <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/lightning-razes-down-church/">H-Metro</a> but said he is currently in northern Zambia conducting crusades. He said:
<blockquote>
Unfortunately, the fire brigade came but they had no water. It’s sad that our fire brigade inogara isina mvura. Last year we called them to Niasha and they had no water again.
We officially opened and dedicated it on the 30th of July and today the 30th of September it’s gutted by fire caused by lightning.
It’s really a setback. It’s not human error, but a natural disaster.
</blockquote>
The chairperson of the Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe in Mashonaland West Province, Pastor Tafadzwa Mafukidze,  expressed confidence that they will be able to rebuild the church. He said:
<blockquote>
This was quite unfortunate as we lost a great investment to the fire. We are grateful to the people who fought and managed to save the chairs, PA System and some other equipment from the fire.
We stand today with our fellow Servant of God and the entire Awake Grace Ministries family during this time of loss.
We are not ignorant of the devices and schemes used by the enemy as he pounces on us trying to steal, kill and destroy.
We believe that God will restore all that was lost.
</blockquote>
In Zimbabwe, lightning strikes are common during the rainy season which normally runs from late October/early November to March.
Here are several ways to prevent lightning strikes:
<ul>
<li>Installing lightning rods on the roof of a building can help to attract lightning strikes and direct the electrical current safely into the ground.</li>
<li>Installing surge protectors on electrical equipment can help prevent damage from power surges caused by lightning strikes.</li>
<li>Ensuring that electrical systems are properly grounded can help to prevent damage from lightning strikes.</li>
<li>Avoid outdoor activities during thunderstorms. If you are outdoors during a thunderstorm, seek shelter immediately to reduce the risk of being struck by lightning.</li>
<li>Unplugging electrical equipment. Unplugging electrical equipment during a thunderstorm can help to prevent damage from power surges caused by lightning strikes.</li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Lightning Strike Destroys Church In Chinhoyi

A 42-year-old man was fatally struck by a bolt of lightning on Tuesday while walking with his girlfriend along a footpath in Cowdray Park, Bulawayo.
Police said Peter Gwaza died on the spot while his 30-year-old girlfriend, Priority Dube was seriously injured when the lightning struck. Police said:
<blockquote>
The ZRP reports a sad incident in which Peter Gwaza (42) and his girlfriend Priority Dube (30) were struck by a bolt of lightning on 03/01/23 while walking along a footpath in Cowdray Park.
Peter Gwaza died on the spot while Priority Dube sustained burns on the stomach and bruises on her hands and face.
</blockquote>
In an unrelated but sad incident, the ZRP said two children, a boy and a girl, accidentally dropped a toddler they were playing with resulting in him hitting a big stone with his head which killed him instantly. Police said in a statement:
<blockquote>
The ZRP reports a sad incident in which a boy (6) and girl (8), who were playing while swinging a one year and eight months old boy holding the hands and legs, lost grip of the child resulting in him falling down with the head hitting onto a big stone.
The victim died on the spot and the body was taken to a local hospital mortuary for post-mortem. Investigations are underway.
</blockquote>

Two Lovers Struck By Lightning In Cowdray Park

A bolt of lightning struck and killed 18 cattle worth US$7 000 on Sunday in Chief Chireya’s area in Gokwe North District.
One of the two herders who were tending the cattle in the veld was struck by lightning and thrown several metres away but survived.
The other one almost suffocated after one of the animals, which was struck by lightning fell on top of him.
Gokwe North district development co-ordinator (DDC) Martin Musakanda confirmed the incident.
He said the cattle belonged to Nyasha Chivaviro, Richard Kapfumo and his brother, Svorai Kapfumo.
Chivaviro lost 10 cattle, Kapfumo lost 5, while all of Svorai Kapfumo’s three cattle were fatally struck by the lightning. Said Musakanda:
<blockquote>
I can confirm that we received a report pertaining to a disaster that hit three farmers in Madzivazvido Ward 3 under Chief Chireya in Gokwe North District.
The farmers lost a total of 18 cattle after they were struck by a bolt of lightning.
Madzivazvido is a farming area under Chief Chireya. The area was hit by severe thunderstorms which caused the death of the 18 cattle.
One of the herd boys had to be pulled from under the cow, which had been struck by lightning while the other one was thrown several metres away.
Both herd boys did not sustain any injuries.
</blockquote>
Musakanda said the District Civil Protection Unit (CPU) committee visited the farmers for assessment and consolation.
He said the Veterinary Services Department also advised the farmers on the proper disposal methods of the carcasses, which entailed burning and burying them.
Gokwe-Kabuyuni MP, Spencer Tshuma (ZANU PF) said in total, 20 cattle were struck by lightning and only two survived. He said:
<blockquote>
This unfortunate incident happened as the two herd boys were about to cross the river.
They were coming from the pastures when it started raining, and they decided to drive the cattle home.
</blockquote>
Last week, the Meteorological Service Department (MSD) forecasted violent thunderstorms and localised hail in some parts of the country. | <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/lightning-bolt-kills-18-cattle/">Chronicle</a>

Lightning Bolt Kills 18 Cattle In Gokwe

A lightning bolt struck dead two oxen in the Mvuthu area outside Victoria Falls last Friday, a day after the community had gathered to pray for rain and to break a dry spell.
Speaking to CITE, Acting Chief Mvuthu, Bishop Matata Sibanda said the whole community was shocked by the incident. He said:
<blockquote>
We had a day of prayer for traditionalists and churches on Thursday and a day later we had such a tragedy which has never happened before.
I was shocked when I got a call that lightning had struck two oxen and the whole community is still in shock too.
We wanted to appease spirits following damage caused by a storm at Ndlovu Secondary School.
We haven’t received meaningful rains because traditionally our rain comes from the direction of Zambia but all the light showers that we have received come from Masue direction which we know will not be strong.
However, we are worried that it caused such destruction.
</blockquote>
Chairman of Mvuthu village Paulos Ntini said that the two oxen belonged to Sam Dube and Alton Ncube of BH 26 in the area. Said Ntini:
<blockquote>
They were grazing in the bush when they were found dead after being struck by lightning.
We were excited that the rains had come after the prayer ceremony last Thursday but we are shocked at what then happened.
</blockquote>
Kachechete ward councillor Givemeagain Moyo also said the prayer session was combined with traditional rituals. Moyo said:
<blockquote>
Everyone gathered for a prayer session on Thursday and each was assigned to go and continue with fasting and rituals at their respective places.
We were happy that it rained on Friday but the sad news of lighting that struck cattle dampened the mood.
</blockquote>
Lightning strikes are common during the first half of Zimbabwe’s rainy season as most of the rainfall activity is of a conventional type. | <a href="https://cite.org.zw/lightning-kills-oxen-a-day-after-rainmaking-ceremony/">CITE</a>

Lightning Bolt Kills Oxen A Day After Prayers For Rains

A lightning bolt struck and killed 16 herd of cattle belonging to three families in Mbembesi 1, in Lupane East Constituency.
The lightning incident occurred last week on Thursday.
Kusile Rural District Councillor for Ward 23 Fibion Ngwenya said of the 16 beasts, 13 belonged to one family while two other families lost two and one respectively. Ngwenya said:
<blockquote>
Yes, 16 cattle were struck dead by lightning in my ward. Thirteen of them belong to one person while another family had two and another one beast struck dead.
They went to see the carcasses and could not do anything because culturally they cannot be burnt which happens even when a tree is struck by lightning.
It is first cut and gathered together. So, they ended up digging a trench and burying them all.
</blockquote>
Culturally, it is taboo to touch anything struck by lightning or burn it before some rituals are performed, reported <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/lightning-kills-16-cattle/">the Chronicle</a>.
The items can then be burnt or buried underground and it is believed that this prevents further lightning strikes.
Early this month, Evans Moyo (22) and his three-year-old daughter were struck dead by lightning while at home in Ndimimbili Village under Chief Mabhikwa, Lupane.
Moyo’s wife, Nomatter (23) was left with burns and she was treated at St Luke’s Hospital and discharged.

Lightning Strike Kills 16 Herd Of Cattle

A woman from Chirumanzu was fatally struck by a lightning bolt while her two-year-old son who was strapped on her back sustained severe stomach burns.
ZRP spokesperson in Midlands Province, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/mother-struck-by-lightning-son-sustains-severe-burns/">was reported as saying</a> Elisa Zhou (47), was coming from a church service on Sunday when she was struck by lightning.
The baby was then rescued from his mother’s body by passers-by and was ferried to Mvuma Hospital.
Meanwhile, in another lightning incident, a 27-year-old Lupane man and his three-year-old daughter died when they were struck by lightning on Sunday last week.
Evan Moyo (27) and Samantha Moyo from Ndimimbili Village under Chief Mabhikwa were seated in a kitchen hut when they were fatally struck by a lightning bolt.
Matabeleland North police confirmed the incident, saying the deceased were also in the company of Nomatter Moyo (23) who was seriously injured in the incident. Police said<a href="https://vicfallslive.co.zw/father-daughter-killed-after-lightning-strike-in-lupane/"> in a statement:</a>
<blockquote>
Moyo and his daughter (Samantha Moyo) were struck by lightning while inside the kitchen hut.
Moyo died instantly whilst his wife was seriously injured on the face and Samantha passed on whilst being transported to Gomoza Clinic.
The circumstances are that on Sunday around 5 PM, the deceased Moyo, his spouse, and his late daughter entered the kitchen hut for shelter since it was raining.
They were struck by a bolt of lightning while inside the kitchen and the hut caught fire.
</blockquote>
Police said the incident was witnessed by the victims’ neighbours, Pison Moyo and Metivity Ncube who saw the kitchen in flames. The police said:
<blockquote>
Upon arrival, Moyo and Ncube noticed that Nomatter Moyo had burns on her face while Samantha had burns all over her body and was still alive.
They also observed that Evans Moyo had been burnt all over his body and had already passed on.
Ncube and Moyo then went with Nomatter Moyo and Samantha Moyo to Gomoza Clinic using a donkey-drawn scotch cart, but Samantha Moyo passed on before they reached the clinic while the mother was referred to Saint Luke’s hospital for further management since she was critical.
</blockquote>

Mother And Son Struck By Lightning

Five learners from Dabwa Primary School in Zaka District, Masvingo province were struck by a bolt of lightning on Tuesday afternoon while on their way home from school.
Two of the pupils, a boy and girl (names supplied), and were both in Grade Five died, while the other three learners were injured.
A teacher at the school who refused to be named, confirmed the incident, saying at the time of the lightning strike, it was not raining and the pupils were less than a kilometre from the school. Said the teacher:
<blockquote>
The unfortunate incident happened on Tuesday and at around 1 pm when the pupils were on their way home after they had been dismissed.
The two were among a group of pupils walking home when a bolt of lightning struck them. Three of their mates that they were walking with were injured in the process.
The frightened and injured pupils called for help and were assisted by passersby who ferried them to a nearby clinic. The passersby also tried to help the two victims but to no avail.
It was strange really because on the day when the incident occurred it was not even raining or drizzling.
</blockquote>
The teacher said the injured pupils who were rushed to a nearby hospital where they received treatment had since been discharged.
The teacher added that some traumatised pupils are now unwilling to come to school for fear of another lightning strike.
Lightning strikes are common in Zimbabwe especially at the onset of the rainfall season as the rainfall is of the conventional type triggered by highly unstable atmospheric conditions caused by high daytime temperatures.
In November last year, two learners at Seke 1 High School in Chitungwiza were struck by a bolt of lightning while on their way from the school.
The learners, who were both 15, were ferried to a nearby hospital and were pronounced dead upon admission. | <a href="https://www.bmetro.co.zw/lightning-kills-two-pupils-in-zaka/">B-Metro</a>

Lightning Bolt Strikes Five Learners In Zaka

Police in Mashonaland Central Province have advised members of the public to avoid walking in the open during thunderstorms after a young mother was killed by a bolt of lightning in Bindura on Sunday afternoon.
19-year-old Vigilance Mushore from Tresspasses Farm in Bindura died after being struck by lightning while visiting a nearby farm during a thunderstorm.
She was in the company of her young sister (14) and daughter (6).
Mushore’s daughter sustained burns on the forehead and a swollen right eye while the sister was unhurt.
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson in Mashonaland Central Province, Sergeant Major Samuel Chikasha confirmed the tragic incident.
He said on Sunday at around 2 pm the trio was passing through Guttingwood Farm when a sudden lightning bolt struck Mushore. She died on the spot.
Sergeant Major Chikasha said Mushore’s daughter was rushed to Bindura Hospital where she was treated and discharged.
Police officers attended the scene and observed that Mushore’s body had burns on the chest and lower back. Added Chikasha:
<blockquote>
We advise members of the public to wait until thunderstorms have passed because wet ground is a conductor of lightning.
</blockquote>
| <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/woman-struck-by-lightning/">The Herald</a>

Young Mother Killed By Lightning Bolt

Three gardeners employed at Manna Resort in Harare are facing theft allegations following a fire incident at the lodge on 1 November.
The three men allegedly took advantage of the incident to steal US$2 500 cash from Netty Musasa’s office.
Zacharia Phiri, Richman Kamusasa and Simon Vhiya are expected to appear at the Harare Magistrates Court charged with theft.
According to a statement issued Manna Resort CEO on 2 November 2022, part of the Manna Resorts complex was struck by lightning which resulted in a fire.
The fire affected PaSangano Lifestyle Centre and parts of Panzvimbo and Tata accommodation facilities. | <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/manna-resort-fire-3-gardeners-in-court-for-theft/">The Herald</a>

3 Gardeners Take Advantage Of Manna Resort Fire To Steal Cash

A bolt of lightning struck a section of the upmarket Manna Resort in Harare on Tuesday afternoon, reducing property worth millions of dollars to ashes.
Two buildings were also destroyed in the fire which took firefighters more than an hour to extinguish.
The Panzvimbo/Sangano section, which houses a kitchen and accommodation was reduced to a shell by the fire. Part of the section had been opened just three months ago.
Fortunately, none of the workers on duty were injured.
ZRP national spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirmed the incident. He said:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Republic Police has received a report of a fire at Manna Resort located in Glen Lorne.
Details of the damage will be released in due course.
</blockquote>
One of the workers who spoke to <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/lightning-strikes-upmarket-resort/">H-Metro</a> but is not authorised to speak to the press said:
<blockquote>
I am not allowed to speak to the Press, but the lightning was so terrifying.
Kana mazogara mheni yakaipa. Munguva pfupi Panzvimbo yose yanga yasanganiswa nemoto tikatiza tichidedera. (A lightning strike is terrifying. In a very short space of time, the whole area had caught fire. We ran away trembling with fear.
We looked in disbelief as the fire burnt the thatched roofs.
Nothing could be recovered as we were all shocked and scared.
</blockquote>
The resort’s general manager said his team was yet to calculate the value of the loss they suffered.

Lightning Strikes Luxury Lodge In Harare

The rainy season has just commenced in Zimbabwe but worryingly, several cases of fatal lightning strikes have already been recorded countrywide.
An 18-year-old man and his 16-year-old girlfriend were struck by a bolt of lightning on Friday afternoon while on their way from the river. The man died on the spot.
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson in Mashonaland West Province, Inspector Margaret Chitove, told <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/lightning-bolt-strikes-lovebirds/">H-Metro</a> the incident happened on 28 October at around 4.30 pm.
Inspector Chitove said the now deceased man went to Hunyani River, with his 17-year-old friend, and his 16-year-old girlfriend, and her friend, to wash some clothes. She said:
<blockquote>
On their way back, it started raining and the two were struck by a bolt of lightning.
They were both thrown into a ditch and the boy died on the spot, and the girl complained of painful eyes.
</blockquote>
Police officers from Chemagamba Police Station attended the scene and the girl was rushed to Chinhoyi Provincial Hospital where she is recovering.
Insp Chitove implored members of the public to avoid the use of cellphones when outdoors in the rain. She said:
<blockquote>
People must also avoid seeking shelter under trees and being in open spaces, as the chances of being struck by lightning are very high.
</blockquote>
In its latest weather forecast issued at 4 PM on Tuesday, the Meteorological Services Department said “lightning strikes are a major risk during this period” and “when thunder roars it is best to be indoors.”
On Monday last week a 30-year-old Chimanimani man, <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/man-struck-by-lightning-at-a-faith-healers-shrine/">Tichaona Mathew Ngoma, died instantly after he was struck by a lightning bolt at a faith healer’s shrine</a> where he had gone to seek his spiritual assistance.

Lightning Bolt Strikes Teen Lovers And Throws Them Into A Ditch

A Chimanimani man died on Monday last week after he was struck by a lightning bolt at a faith healer’s shrine where he had gone to seek his spiritual assistance.
Tichaona Mathew Ngoma (30) died at Madzibaba Tarisai Misheck’s shrine.
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) deputy spokesperson in Manicaland Province, Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka, said the incident happened in Chibuwe Village in Chief Mutambara’s area. He said:
<blockquote>
Ngoma visited Madzibaba Misheck’s shrine on October 21 seeking spiritual assistance. Madzibaba Misheck advised him to stay at the shrine for seven days and he complied.
On October 24, Ngoma and his colleague, Valentine Mukomo, went to a nearby river to bath.
After bathing, they proceeded to a nearby bush to fetch firewood as they wanted to cook.
It started raining and they rushed back to the shrine and left the firewood under a tree.
They sought shelter in a tent that was at the shrine. Ngoma was struck by a lightning bolt and died on the spot.
</blockquote>
Assistant Inspector Chinyoka added that Ngoma’s body was taken to Nyanyadzi Rural Hospital mortuary. | <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/lightning-kills-one-at-madzibabas-shrine/">The Manica Post</a>

Man Struck By Lightning At A Faith Healer's Shrine

CCTV footage in Jakarta, Indonesia has captured a security guard who luckily survived a direct hit by lightning.
According to local media, the 35-year-old, working as a guard for a company dealing with heavy machinery in the north of Jakarta, was on duty when lightning struck him.
In the video, shared by an Indonesian media company and reposted on social media, the man can be seen walking in the rain under an umbrella, with what looks like huge military vehicles parked in the area. 
Some 15 seconds after he enters the frame, a blast and sparks can be seen in the very place he walked, and the footage then shows him lying on the wet ground. He fails to get up, and people run toward him.
The incident happened earlier this week, local media reported on Sunday, adding that police have confirmed the news. Watch the video below for more:
<div class="wp-video" style="width: 320px;">
<video class="wp-video-shortcode" controls="controls" height="320" id="video-222426-1" preload="metadata" width="320"><source src="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/yzQ_FYhjBI7J6mYr.mp4?_=1" type="video/mp4"/><a href="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/yzQ_FYhjBI7J6mYr.mp4">https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/yzQ_FYhjBI7J6mYr.mp4</a></video></div>
The man survived, having suffered burns to his hands, according to Detik News. He was initially treated at a hospital but is now recovering at home. It is believed the guard’s walkie-talkie, which he had in his hands, attracted the lightning discharge.
<h2>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

WATCH: As Man Is Being Hit By Lightning

A communal farmer from Chitomborwizi in Makonde district was struck and killed by lightning while tilling his groundnut field.
The now deceased, identified as Philemon Marozva (48), died instantly following a lightning bolt last week Wednesday.
Marozva was buried at Marozva village on Monday at a sombre ceremony that attracted a sizeable number of mourners.
Speaking to <a href="http://newzimbabwe.com/">NewZimbabwe.com,</a> Annah Munetsi who is a close relative of the deceased said the tragedy occurred around 5 pm as light showers fell in the area. She said:
<blockquote>My uncle was attending to his groundnut field when light showers started drizzling in the area.
He then instructed his children who were also working the fields to rush home as a heavy downpour was imminent. Suddenly, there was thunder and a bolt that hit Marozva who was using a metal hoe, resulting in him dying instantly.</blockquote>
His eldest son, Noah and other neighbours rushed to the scene and tried to resuscitate the now deceased, but to no avail.
Marozva’s clothes, including a cap he was wearing, were reportedly shredded by the lightning.
The now deceased, a member of the Johanne Masowe apostolic church, is survived by two wives and 12 children, with the youngest being five-months-old.
More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/lightning-kills-man-48-while-tilling-groundnut-field/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">NewZimbabwe</a>

Lightning Kills Zimbabwean Farmer

Two pupils died and over 30 others were injured when lightning struck at  Chitsara Secondary School during assembly.   The school is in <a href="http://www.pindula.co.zw/Marondera">Marondera</a>.    Lightning struck at around 4 pm and two pupils one in form 2 and the other in form 4 were pronounced dead on arrival at  Wenimbe Clinic.  Some pupils who sustained serious burns were taken to Marondera Provincial hospital.
The injured were visited by   Minister of Defence Dr.<a href="http://www.pindula.co.zw/Sidney_Sekeramayi"> Sydney Sekeramayi</a>, Marondera East legislator Cde Jeremiah Chiwetu, Marondera Central legislator Cde Lawrence Katsiru and Marondera Rural District Chairperson Cde Patrick Chidakwa.
More: <a href="http://www.zbc.co.zw/index.php/news-categories/top-stories/73572-lightning-kills-2-school-pupils-injures-30-in-macheke">ZBC News</a>

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