Strong winds leave many homeless in Gatsibo

Strong winds accompanied by light rain have destroyed 34 homes in Rwanda’s Gatsibo District, leaving some families without shelter.

The winds hit Kabeza and Humure villages in Rwimbogo Sector, destroying 19 homes in Kabeza and damaging 15 in Humure, local authorities said.

No deaths or injuries were reported.

The storm came after a prolonged dry spell, with residents expecting rain to support their farming activities.

“The winds came suddenly and blew off the roof of my house. I am now in a difficult situation because I do not have the means to repair it quickly,” said Kanyabazungu Anastase, a resident of Humure.

Rwimbogo Sector Executive Secretary Musonera Emmanuel said the rainfall was brief but intense and accompanied by strong winds.

“The rain lasted for a short time but was intense and accompanied by strong winds. It destroyed houses and blew off some roofs, but fortunately no one was injured,” he said.

Rwanda’s weather agency, MeteoRwanda, had forecast thunderstorms across the country on Sunday afternoon, accompanied by moderate to strong winds of between 3m/s and 8m/s.

Temperatures were expected to reach 31C in Nyagatare, Kayonza and Rubavu districts.

Some affected families are seeking temporary shelter and assistance with roofing sheets, timber and other construction materials.

Mr Musonera urged residents to secure their roofs, clear drainage channels and strengthen erosion-control measures as more rain is expected.

He also warned people against sheltering under trees during storms because of the risk of lightning strikes.