Uttar Pradesh state in northern India experienced severe thunderstorms, strong winds, hail, and lightning, resulting in at least 89 deaths and over 50 injuries. Numerous homes were damaged, while local authorities rushed to assist victims and assess the damage.
Severe unstable weather struck Uttar Pradesh, northern India, after thunderstorms, strong gusty winds, hail, and lightning battered multiple areas throughout Wednesday. The state's disaster management office reported at least 89 deaths and 53 injuries.
Reports indicate that Prayagraj city was the hardest hit area, with 21 fatalities, followed by Sant Ravidas Nagar district with 14 deaths, Fatehpur district with 11, and Mirzapur district with 10. Other areas such as Unnao, Bareilly, Budaun, and Pratapgarh also reported fatalities and damage.
The severe storm caused trees and electric poles to fall, resulting in extensive damage to homes, including collapsed walls and roofs in many areas. Additionally, at least 114 livestock died, and no fewer than 87 houses were damaged.
Officials stated that most fatalities were caused by collapsing walls, falling trees, and lightning strikes during the dust storm and heavy rain that lasted from morning until late Wednesday.
The Indian Meteorological Department had previously issued warnings about thunderstorms and lightning in several northern regions due to weather changes influenced by westerly winds.
Yogi Adityanath, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, instructed officials in all districts to expedite assistance to affected residents and to provide compensation to families of the deceased and those impacted within 24 hours.
Several distressing incidents were reported: a 19-year-old woman died from lightning while sheltering from rain under a tree with a herd of goats in Rasulabad, with several goats dying simultaneously. A nearby 60-year-old man was injured. In another incident in Sonbhadra district, a 38-year-old man died after a large tree toppled by the storm fell on him.
Indian authorities said that administrative officers, rescue teams, and agricultural departments are currently conducting damage assessments and coordinating with insurance companies to evaluate the impact on agriculture and citizens’ property across the affected areas.
/sourceThe New Indian Express