Deadly Storms Lash UP, 56 Killed Amid Heavy Rainfall
Unseasonal rain and powerful winds flatten homes, uproot trees and trigger widespread destruction across multiple districts
LUCKNOW, May 14: Severe thunderstorms accompanied by heavy rain and lightning wreaked havoc across several districts of Uttar Pradesh, leaving at least 56 people dead and many others injured, officials said on Thursday. The sudden spell of extreme weather uprooted trees, brought down electricity poles and damaged houses, causing panic in affected regions.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath reviewed the situation after receiving reports of large-scale destruction caused by the unseasonal weather on Wednesday. He directed district administrations to provide immediate relief and ensure compensation and assistance reach affected families within 24 hours.
According to official reports, Prayagraj recorded the highest number of fatalities with 17 deaths, followed by 16 in Bhadohi and nine in Fatehpur. Other districts affected included Badaun, Pratapgarh, Chandauli, Kushinagar and Sonbhadra.
Authorities in Prayagraj said several victims died after trees and walls collapsed during intense winds and rain. The district administration reported casualties from Handia, Phulpur, Soraon, Meja and Sadar areas, where rescue teams were deployed following the storm.
In Bhadohi district, widespread damage to homes and infrastructure was reported after powerful gusts uprooted trees and electric poles. Local officials said multiple fatalities occurred in separate storm-related incidents across rural areas.
Fatehpur district also witnessed heavy destruction, where nine people lost their lives and at least 16 others suffered injuries. Officials said most deaths were caused by collapsing walls and structures weakened by strong winds and rainfall.
In Pratapgarh, residents faced dangerous conditions as lightning strikes and collapsing cemented sheds claimed several lives. Police officials confirmed that separate incidents of structural collapse and electrocution were reported from different villages during the storm.
Rain-related incidents were also reported from Kanpur Dehat, where a teenage girl died after lightning struck near a tree under which she had taken shelter during heavy rainfall. Several animals grazing nearby were also killed in the incident. Another elderly man sustained injuries and was shifted for treatment.
Deoria district reported additional casualties due to lightning strikes during the storm. Officials said two separate incidents claimed lives while others were injured during sudden thunder activity.
In Sonbhadra, a man died after a large uprooted tree collapsed on him amid strong winds and rain, officials added.
The severe weather disrupted normal life in many districts, damaging electricity supply lines, blocking roads and affecting transportation. Emergency teams and local authorities worked overnight to clear fallen trees and restore power connections in affected areas.
Chief Minister Adityanath instructed officials from the revenue, agriculture and disaster management departments to remain on high alert. He also ordered a detailed assessment of crop losses, property damage and livestock casualties caused by the storm.
Authorities have asked residents in vulnerable areas to remain cautious as weather agencies warned of continued rainfall and thunderstorm activity in parts of the state over the next few days.
