More than a week after a powerful windstorm tore through communities across Region Two, many affected residents say the frightening memories remain vivid, even as repairs to their damaged homes continue.
Among them is 88-year-old pensioner Gwendoline Hercules of Lot 18 Henrietta, who recalls the terrifying moments when strong winds ripped the roof from her home on 24 June.
Hercules said she had stepped into her kitchen with her grandson moments before the storm intensified.
“Within two minutes, we felt the breeze getting stronger.
My grandson shouted, ‘Granny, something is wrong.’ Then the zinc sheets started flying and one struck him,” she recounted.
Hercules said she rushed to see what had happened and was left in disbelief.
“My grandson said, ‘Granny, your entire house top gone.’ I went and looked and couldn’t believe my eyes.”
The experience, she said, left her badly shaken and unable to sleep for several nights. Despite her ordeal, Hercules expressed gratitude for the prompt assistance she received.
She said government officials, including Minister within the Ministry of Public Works Madanlall Ramraj, visited the community soon after the disaster, and work to restore her roof began quickly.
Another Henrietta resident, Teshana Bob, was at work when the windstorm struck. Returning home, she was devastated to find that the roof of her house had been completely blown away.
“It was heartbreaking to come home and see my roof gone,” Bob said.
She expressed appreciation for the support she received, noting that repairs were carried out after government representatives visited the area to assess the damage.
For Beverly Gregory, a pensioner and single mother, the storm was a terrifying ordeal that she says she will never forget.
“I was fearful for my life.
The zinc sheets were flying towards me, and I didn’t know what would happen next,” Gregory recalled.
She said the frightening experience has left a lasting emotional impact but is thankful that assistance was provided to help restore her home.
The 24 June windstorm swept across several communities in Region Two, ripping roofs from homes, uprooting trees, and damaging public and private property.
