Lightning Turns Chiredzi Hut Into Firetrap, Killing Woman in Her Sleep
CHIREDZI – A Chiredzi woman was burnt to death in her sleep after lightning struck her family’s thatched hut during a violent storm, a tragedy that has reignited fears over rural safety as the rainy season begins.
Masvingo Deputy Provincial Police Spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu, confirmed that the incident occurred on 27 October 2025 in Rushangarumwe Village, Buffalo Range.
At around 8p.m, lightning struck the roof of a thatched hut where 25-year-old Chenai Mahusani was sleeping with eight other family members, instantly setting it ablaze.
As flames engulfed the hut, Mahusani’s father and other villagers rushed to the scene in a desperate rescue attempt.
They managed to pull out the eight other occupants alive, but Mahusani had already succumbed to the fire.
Her body was later taken to Chiredzi General Hospital for a post-mortem examination.
Assistant Inspector Patinyu said the incident had raised serious concerns about the safety of rural communities during the rainy season.
He emphasised the need for both public education and practical solutions to prevent similar tragedies.
“Public awareness on lightning and the dangers it poses remains important
“However, there is need for practical implementation, including affordable lightning protection systems for rural communities,” he said.
Local leaders and civil protection officials are now calling for urgent investment in lightning safety infrastructure.
They are urging authorities to prioritise the installation of lightning conductors in schools and homesteads to prevent further loss of life and property.
Recent storms in Masvingo Province have destroyed several schools and left communities exposed to dangerous weather conditions, according to TellZim.
