Storm damages 33 houses, maize fields

MANZINI – The effects of climate change continue to wreak havoc in the country, as 33 homesteads were damaged last Friday.

The affected areas include Mahlangatsha, Ntontozi, Makhungutja and Nkwene. Mahlangatsha Constituency Indvuna Yenkhundla Mduduzi Fakudze said about four chiefdoms had reported having been affected by the storm in his constituency. The four chiefdoms are Ntfungula, Mahlangatsha, Mambatfweni and Nsangwini. He said besides some homesteads having their roofing blown-off, maize fields were also damaged such that some farmers would have a minimal yield. Meanwhile, the Chiefdom Councillor for Mahlangatsha, Nomvula Dlamini, said she had gathered that three homesteads were affected in her jurisdiction. “The most effect of the storm was in the fields as the hail ravaged the fields,” Dlamini said.

Reports

On the other hand, National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) Communications Officer Wandile Mavuso confirmed that they had received reports of the damage caused by the storm. He said: “The country was hit by another storm which was characterised by heavy rains with strong winds and hail which caused devastating damage mainly in the Manzini and Shiselweni

Regions.” Mavuso said areas affected include Ntontozi, Makhungutja and Nkwene. A total of 33 houses were damaged, affecting over 198 people. The impact consisted of damaged windows and blown-away roofing. Furthermore,

he said 69 households reported damages to maize and bean fields as a result of the hail. This will negatively affect food security for approximately 414 household members. Businesses and churches were also affected.

The NDMA reported that about 69 households reported damages to maize and beans field as a result of the hail.

(Courtesy pics) One of the houses that were damaged by the storm.

Another house that was heavily damaged by the storm at the roof.

Some of the homesteads which had their roofing partially blown off by the strong winds on Friday. (L) Some of the corrugated iron sheets which were blown off landed on other houses.