Tragedy struck in Kalomo’s Nkandazovu area on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, when a lightning bolt claimed the lives of two schoolgirls. The girls, Beatrice Simwaami, 14, and Lyness Muleya, 13, were walking home from Nkandanzovu Primary School when the incident occurred at around 16:00 hours.
According to Southern Province Police Commanding Officer Auxensio Daka, the tragedy was reported by Collins Siachija, the Deputy Headteacher at Nkandanzovu Primary School, at 16:35 hours. Siachija confirmed that both girls were killed instantly when struck by the lightning as they were walking home after school.
The incident occurred shortly after the two girls had knocked off from school. As the rain began to fall, the girls sought shelter under a tree, a decision that tragically led to their untimely deaths when the lightning struck. The police have confirmed that the two girls were from the same family.
Authorities have extended their condolences to the families of the deceased, and investigations into the incident are ongoing. The loss has deeply affected the local community, and the school has expressed its sorrow over the tragic event.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of seeking shelter under trees during thunderstorms, a safety hazard that has been highlighted by meteorological experts. As the community comes to terms with the loss, there have been calls for increased awareness and safety measures during such weather conditions.
The Southern Province Police have assured the public that they will continue to provide support to the grieving families and offer further updates as investigations into the incident progress.