What was meant to be a solemn farewell turned into chaos in Mulili, Makindu, Makueni County, after strong winds swept through a burial ceremony, blowing away tents and leaving one person dead and scores of mourners injured.

According to Mulili Area Chief James Muithya, the incident occurred as mourners gathered for the burial ceremony when powerful winds suddenly struck the area, sending people scrambling for safety.

In the ensuing confusion, several people were injured as they attempted to escape the collapsing tents and flying debris. The injured were rushed to Makindu Sub-County Hospital, where they are receiving medical attention.

The deceased is believed to be an elderly woman who was caught up in the rush to escape the scene. She reportedly succumbed during the incident, turning an already emotional day of mourning into one marked by shock and grief.

The tragedy also disrupted the burial programme, forcing the family and mourners to cut short the ceremony as they dealt with the unfolding emergency.

For a family that had gathered to bid their loved one a final farewell, the unexpected fury of the winds brought an unimaginable twist leaving behind a second tragedy and a community grappling with the sudden loss of life.

Authorities are expected to assess the extent of the damage and establish the exact number of people injured in the incident.