27 Dec 2018

A hailstorm that hit Francistown on December 26 left a trail of destruction across the city.

Some residents of China Town, Donga, Satellite and Coloured Stance were left homeless after their houses were destroyed by the hailstorm.   

In some areas, the storm affected power supply and some business operations were also disrupted.

The shelter at Central Park near John Mackenzie Private School was burnt to ashes by lighting.

Three people who sort refugee at the shelter when the hailstorm started escaped unhurt and were rushed to Nyangabgwe Referral Hospital where they were treated for shock and released.

The Francistown disaster management office led by Assistant District Commissioner Bagomotsi Kooitse said the office was working round the clock to ensure those affected were assisted.

She explained that some victims were housed at Donga JSS and Maradu Primary School while others were housed by relatives and neighbours.

Ms Kooitse further explained that the Disaster Management Office was also in the process of buying food for seven families that were affected by the storm.

Central police station commander, Superintendent Lebalang Maniki, said they had not recorded any loss of life or injuries.

He said at China Town, three flats were destroyed and one vehicle was damaged adding that the MetSafe wholesales roof was slightly damaged at the roof.

Supt. Maniki explained they met with the city authorities to map the way forward. ENDS