Severe weather conditions claimed the lives of at least 96 people and left more than 50 others injured across northern India’s most populated state, authorities confirmed Thursday.
The deadly combination of powerful winds, torrential rainfall, and electrical storms tore through multiple areas of Uttar Pradesh late Wednesday evening, causing widespread destruction.
Authorities reported that victims died from various causes including falling trees, building collapses, and lightning strikes. Emergency crews equipped with chainsaws and heavy machinery worked to remove downed trees blocking roadways and train routes throughout the affected regions.
These types of severe weather events typically occur across northern India’s hot season, which spans from March through June, prior to the arrival of the yearly monsoon period.
Narendra N. Srivastava, an administrative official, confirmed that rescue teams had been sent to all impacted zones, noting that residential buildings, agricultural areas, and electrical systems sustained extensive damage, especially in countryside locations.
Residents in Prayagraj district recalled the terror as powerful winds ripped through their communities.
“The storm came suddenly and the sky turned completely dark within minutes,” Ram Kishore said. “Tin roofs were flying and people ran indoors. We could hear trees falling throughout the evening.”
In the adjacent Bhadohi district, Savitri Devi described how her family barely avoided tragedy when fierce winds destroyed their home.
“We rushed outside when the walls started shaking because of the wind. Our roof collapsed moments later. We spent the night at a relative’s house,” she said.
Uttar Pradesh’s Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath commanded officials to finish rescue efforts within one day and instructed local authorities to distribute financial assistance and emergency support to impacted households.
