Storms and Hail Damage 64 Houses and 10 classrooms Across Rwanda.

The affected districts are Kayonza, Rwamagana, Gatsibo and Ngoma in the Eastern Province, Rulindo in the Northern Province, and Nyamasheke and Ngororero in the Western Province. 

Kayonza District was among the areas hit hardest by the storm. In Ruramira Sector, strong winds and hail knocked down 223 banana plants and blew off roofs from several houses.

In Mukarange Sector, roofs of 21 houses were severely damaged. Some families affected by the disaster have been accommodated by neighbours, while those with the means have started repairing their damaged homes. 

In Gatsibo District, 34 houses in Rwimbogo Sector were damaged. 

Rwamagana District also recorded significant damage after strong winds hit GS Ruhunda, damaging the roofs of 22 toilets and 10 classrooms. 

The same winds blew off the roofs of three houses in Kayenzi Village and another house in Gati Cell. Two greenhouses were also damaged in Muhazi Sector. 

In Rulindo District in the Northern Province, one house was damaged in Shyorongi Sector, while 70 roofing sheets and timber used for roofing were also destroyed. 

The severe weather also triggered other incidents. 

In Ruharambuga Sector, Nyamasheke District, lightning caused an electrical accident that sparked a fire, destroying two houses. Families living in the affected homes have since been taken in by neighbours.

In Sake Sector, Ngoma District, a 29-year-old woman was injured by lightning and is receiving treatment at Rukoma Health Centre. 

The fire reported in Nyamasheke also spread to Ngororero District, where it damaged two hectares of the Kagogo state forest. Local authorities, security personnel and residents are working together to contain the fire, while an investigation has been launched to establish its cause. 

MINEMA has urged residents to strengthen disaster-prevention measures as Rwanda enters the September-December rainy season, which is often associated with heavy rainfall and strong winds. The ministry has previously called on communities to secure roofs, clear drainage channels and reinforce vulnerable homes ahead of the rainy season.

Residents have been advised to repair old or weakened houses, properly secure roofs, reinforce walls, foundations and supporting structures, and construct facilities to collect and manage rainwater.

They are also urged to clear drainage channels around their homes, prevent soil erosion by establishing contour trenches and terraces, and avoid blocking waterways or dumping waste into drainage channels.

MINEMA has further called on institutions and managers of facilities where large numbers of people gather to install lightning protection systems and regularly inspect them to ensure they remain functional.