At least one pupil has died and several others sustained critical injuries after strong winds tore through Pascal Academy in Nakuru East, Nakuru County, destroying classrooms on Friday afternoon.
The incident occurred on January 16 while pupils were inside their classrooms, triggering panic and an emergency response from teachers, residents and rescue teams.
Witnesses said powerful winds swept across the school compound, ripping off classroom roofs and causing some of the temporary structures to collapse. Desks, books and building debris were left scattered across classrooms and the playground, illustrating the extent of the damage.
As the winds intensified, teachers and pupils reportedly scrambled for safety as falling debris struck several learners. One pupil was pronounced dead at the scene, while others suffered serious injuries.
Community members were among the first to respond, rushing injured pupils—most of whom are residents of the area—to nearby hospitals for treatment. Authorities later arrived at the scene as investigations into the incident began.
Witnesses also raised concerns about the location and construction of the school, noting that it is a relatively new institution built in an area said to be prone to strong winds and cyclonic conditions. The incident has prompted questions over safety standards and the suitability of the site.
The tragedy has reignited national concerns about learner safety, particularly as schools across the country reopened for the first term last week.
The incident comes just days after the Kenya Meteorological Department warned residents in several regions, including the Rift Valley, Nyanza, Western, Central and Coastal areas, to brace for strong winds exceeding 25 knots (12.5 metres per second).
According to the weather agency, the winds, expected to persist until January 20, could cause significant damage, including destruction of buildings, uprooting of trees and maritime risks.
Authorities are continuing investigations as families and the school community mourn the loss while calling for improved safety measures in learning institutions.
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