At least 111 people have died and more than 50 have been injured due to a dust storm, heavy rain, and lightning strikes in Uttar Pradesh, northern India, while widespread damage has affected homes, buildings, and livestock.
Indian authorities reported on Thursday that severe weather began on Wednesday evening, with strong gusts blowing dust across many areas in Uttar Pradesh, the country's most populous state.
Harikesh Bhaskar Yasoth, the state's Disaster Relief Commissioner, stated that most of the fatalities resulted from building collapses, large tree branches and trees falling, as well as lightning strikes.
Reports indicate that many people rushed to take shelter under trees and overpasses after strong winds blew away billboards, traffic signs, and corrugated metal roofs. Fallen trees blocked roads and damaged vehicles in several areas, while rescue workers scrambled to search for people trapped under rubble.
Police and rescue teams used chainsaws and cranes to clear fallen trees blocking roads and railway lines across multiple districts, while working urgently to restore affected areas.
Indian officials said the control and command center is closely monitoring the situation and has ordered local agencies to expedite aid for victims, care for the injured, and quickly reopen transportation routes cut off by the storm.
Dust storms and severe rainstorms commonly occur in northern India during the summer months from March to June, before the annual monsoon season. However, experts warn that extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and severe due to the impacts of climate change.
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