Severe Storms in Uttar Pradesh Claim 34 Lives Amid Heavy Rain and Winds
Devastating Weather Conditions in Uttar Pradesh
In the last 24 hours, a powerful storm accompanied by heavy rainfall, lightning, and strong winds has resulted in the deaths of 34 individuals in Uttar Pradesh. The sudden and intense weather has wreaked havoc across several districts, with Kasganj and Fatehpur being the hardest hit, each reporting five fatalities due to storm-related incidents. Local officials indicated that most casualties were caused by collapsing structures, falling trees, and lightning strikes. Residents recounted a terrifying night as fierce winds uprooted trees, toppled electric poles, and caused extensive damage to homes and properties.
Tragic Incident in Kushinagar
In Kushinagar district, a 45-year-old woman lost her life when a hut collapsed during a sudden storm on Wednesday. According to police reports, the incident occurred in the village of Tola Sierha, within the Ramkola police jurisdiction. The victim, identified as Manti Devi, was working in a vegetable field with two other women when the storm hit. As the weather worsened, the women sought shelter in a hut. While some took cover under a cot inside, Manti Devi stood outside to hold the hut up, but it ultimately collapsed due to the strong winds, trapping her beneath the debris.
Fatalities in Noida Due to Storm
In Gautam Buddh Nagar, three people, including a two-year-old child, died on Wednesday as a result of the storm and heavy rain. Police officials reported that the storm caused prolonged power outages in Noida, and fallen trees, electric poles, and mobile towers obstructed traffic in various areas. A police spokesperson noted that in the Omicron 3 sector, a metal grill fell from the 22nd floor of the Migson Altimo Society, resulting in the deaths of a 50-year-old woman named Sunita and her two-year-old grandson, who were walking in the park.
Relief Efforts Directed by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has instructed district officials to carry out relief operations promptly in response to the storm, rain, and hail. According to a statement, the CM emphasized the need for officials to visit affected areas, conduct surveys, and closely monitor relief efforts. In cases of loss of human or animal life due to lightning, storms, or rain-related disasters, immediate distribution of relief funds to affected families must be ensured. Medical assistance should be provided to the injured, and officials are tasked with assessing crop damage through surveys and reporting to the government for further action. Additionally, proper drainage arrangements should be prioritized in areas experiencing flooding.
Heavy Rain in Delhi-NCR
Notably, parts of Delhi-NCR experienced heavy rainfall, providing relief from rising temperatures and creating pleasant weather conditions. However, the accompanying strong winds caused some damage throughout the region. In nearby Noida, numerous trees were uprooted and fell on vehicles, disrupting traffic. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted partly cloudy skies with thunderstorms expected on Friday and Saturday.
Flight Operations Affected at Delhi Airport
Flight operations at Delhi Airport were disrupted on Wednesday evening due to heavy rain and storms. The airline Indigo announced on social media platform X that their flight schedules were currently affected due to severe weather in Delhi, Chandigarh, and Kolkata. The operator of Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), confirmed that adverse weather conditions and storms could impact flight operations.