The weather in Uttar Pradesh took a dramatic turn on Wednesday evening as sudden thunderstorms, heavy rain, and hailstorms struck the state amidst intense heat. More than 30 districts, including Prayagraj and Varanasi, experienced high-velocity winds and rain, while 10 districts, including Lucknow, witnessed significant hailstorms. In Sultanpur, the storm reached speeds of 60 kmph, leading to the roof of a toll plaza on the Purvanchal Expressway being blown away. Ayodhya also reported rain accompanied by a dust storm.
Casualties and Widespread Damage
The storm and strong winds caused extensive damage across the state, uprooting trees, bringing down electricity poles, and collapsing several mud houses. This natural calamity resulted in the deaths of 13 individuals. Sultanpur reported the highest number of fatalities with 7 deaths, followed by Ayodhya and Amethi with 2 deaths each. Prayagraj and Ghazipur recorded 1 death each. Instances of lightning strikes were also reported from various locations during the storm.
Incidents in Varanasi and Meteorological Causes
In Varanasi's Lahurabir area, a major accident was averted when a heavy directional signboard, unable to withstand the wind pressure, collapsed onto the road. This caused panic and briefly disrupted traffic. According to the Meteorological Department, this sudden atmospheric change is due to moist winds arriving from the Bay of Bengal. Consequently, an alert for storms and rain has been issued for 58 districts across Purvanchal, Awadh, Bundelkhand, and the Braj region.
Key Highlights of the Weather Event
Heatwave Persistence and Future Forecast
Despite the stormy weather, the heatwave continues to grip parts of the state. 8°C, marking its seventh day as the hottest place in the state this April. On Tuesday, temperatures exceeded 40°C in 15 districts. The Meteorological Department has predicted rain and thunderstorms for 35 districts, including Prayagraj, Varanasi, Kanpur, and Agra, on April 30. Authorities have advised the public to stay indoors, avoid taking shelter under trees, and stay away from electrical appliances. Farmers have also been urged to take precautions to protect their crops.