Violent storm leaves trail of destruction in Handeni

TANGA: A VIOLENT storm swept through Msomera in Handeni District, Tanga Region, on Saturday night, leaving widespread destruction after two hours of relentless rain and strong winds.

The downpour, which began around 7pm and lasted until 9pm, ripped roofs off 92 houses, including the Msomera Primary Court and Msomera Health Centre.

Families were left exposed as floodwaters surrounded homes, turning once-safe shelters into hazardous environments. Toilets collapsed, kitchens were destroyed and three bridges were washed away.

Strong winds uprooted trees and dislodged stumps, blocking bridge openings. With water unable to pass through, swollen streams carved new channels along roadsides, eroding soil and cutting off key transport routes.

The scale of the damage was confirmed during an emergency visit by the Tanga Regional Security Committee, led by Regional Commissioner Batilda Burian.

Handeni District Commissioner Salum Nyamwese described the storm as sudden and devastating. Beyond residential properties, key community facilities were also affected.

The kitchen at Msomera Secondary School was damaged, three churches lost their roofs and two reservoirs in Msomera and Mnunduzi overflowed, disrupting drainage systems.

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An assessment by district and council teams confirmed that at least 92 houses suffered roof damage, while others were flooded, forcing residents into unsafe living conditions.

Authorities estimate that at least 1,000 iron sheets are urgently needed for repairs. Families also require emergency supplies, including mattresses, blankets and water buckets.

Regional officials have notified the Tanzania Red Cross Society, and additional assistance is being coordinated through the Prime Minister’s Office.

Engineers and disaster response teams have been deployed to assess infrastructure damage and mobilise resources.

A key bridge linking the area was partially destroyed after debrisclogged openings diverted floodwaters into its foundations. The regional administration has directed road authorities to urgently restore transport services.