By Aubrey Ghambi

Nkhata Bay, November 30, Mana: Heavy rains accompanied by strong winds which started Friday night, have caused widespread destruction in Group Village Head Kamoza in the area of Chief Mkumbira in Nkhata Bay, leaving numerous families homeless.

In an interview on Saturday, Councillor for Nkhata Bay Boma Ward, Cyria Adamana Nyamwera said over 18 families have been displaced with their homes severely damaged.

"Many of the families were caught off guard by the heavy rains and currently about 18 households have their houses and other properties destroyed,” said Nyamwera.

According to Nyamwera, no injuries have been reported yet, however people are in need of shelter as the rains continue.

Spokesperson Chisomo Kambandanga for Nkhata Bay District Council confirmed that the council has received reports of the damage and is in the process of conducting on-site verification.

“The rains have caused significant damage, including to kiosks at the new Nkhata Bay Boma Market, the council's car park, and the roof of Kalambwe CCAP Church, which was blown off.

“Once we are done with assessment and verification on the damage caused, a report will immediately be sent to relevant authorities," he said.

According to reports from the Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services, Nkhata Bay will continue receiving rains throughout the day.