A calm Monday morning in Lima New Housing Scheme turned into devastation when a sudden storm struck around 8:00 am, leaving behind destruction, despair, and at least 30 residents homeless.
The freak weather system brought heavy rain, thunder, and powerful winds that tore off rooftops, flattened sections of homes, and sent debris flying through the air. Within minutes, several families were left standing amid the wreckage, watching years of hard work reduced to ruins.
For Deodat Samdatt, the terrifying moment is one he will never forget.
“I was in the bedroom when I heard my wife scream,” he recalled, standing beside what was left of his home at Lot 62 Lima Housing Scheme.
“When I went to check, she was bleeding— a beam had fallen on her head. Over thirty zinc sheets came off the roof. Everything inside is damaged — our laptops, appliances, furniture, everything.”
Samdatt estimated his family’s losses at close to $10 million and said they are now unsure where to start rebuilding.
A few houses away, Abdool Hafeez Haleel described returning home to total destruction. “I wasn’t home when it happened. I got a call and rushed over — when I saw the house, everything was gone,” he said softly. “It was old, but it was all we had. I’m not working enough to rebuild, and now my children and I have nowhere to stay.”
For Khampwattie Sukhnandan, the ordeal unfolded as she went about her morning routine. “I was heading to my altar when the wind started. The roof lifted off in seconds,” she recounted. “My husband, who is ill, was lying in bed, and my granddaughter was crying. We couldn’t do anything — everything inside got wet and destroyed.”
The storm left a trail of soaked belongings, broken furniture, and families trying to salvage what little remained. Neighbours and villagers quickly came together, offering shelter, tarpaulins, and emotional support to those affected. Despite the destruction, the spirit of unity was strong.
Regional Chairman Devin Mohan, Regional Vice Chairman Humace Oodit, and Deputy Regional Executive Officer Omesh Sasenaryan visited the affected homes shortly after the incident. They conducted on-the-ground assessments and met with residents to discuss urgent needs and possible assistance.
In a statement, the Region Two Regional Administration expressed sympathy and pledged swift intervention. “We stand in solidarity with the affected families and are committed to ensuring immediate relief and long-term support during this difficult time,” the statement read.
