UP Weather: 111 killed across as hailstorms, heavy rains wreak havoc in 25 districts
At least 111 people lost their lives after severe hailstorms, lightning and heavy rain struck 25 districts of Uttar Pradesh, prompting Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to order urgent relief and rescue operations.
At least 111 people were killed after severe hailstorms in UP (Img: Internet)
Lucknow: At least 111 people were killed and 72 others injured after severe hailstorms, heavy rainfall and lightning strikes hit several parts of Uttar Pradesh between Wednesday and Thursday morning. The extreme weather affected at least 25 districts, causing widespread destruction to homes, livestock and crops.
According to the office of Uttar Pradesh Relief Commissioner Hrishikesh Bhaskar Yashod, the highest number of deaths were reported from Prayagraj, where 21 people lost their lives. Mirzapur recorded 19 deaths, followed by Sant Ravidas Nagar with 16 and Fatehpur with 11 fatalities.
Officials said the storms also led to the death of around 170 livestock and damage to at least 227 houses in different districts. Several districts, including Barabanki, Bahraich, Kanpur Dehat, Basti, Sambhal, Hardoi and Unnao, reported significant losses due to strong winds, lightning and hailstorms.
The state government said district administrations are continuing damage assessments related to houses, crops and public infrastructure.
In Bareilly district’s Bhamora area, a dramatic incident drew widespread attention after a resident, identified as Nanhe Ansari, was reportedly lifted nearly 50 feet into the air along with a tin shed during strong winds. He later fell into a maize field and suffered injuries. Videos of the incident quickly spread on social media.
Yogi Adityanath Orders Immediate Relief
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed condolences to the families of those who died and directed officials to begin immediate relief and rescue operations in affected districts.
District magistrates have been instructed to distribute ex-gratia compensation to the families of the deceased and injured without delay. Officials have also been told to visit affected areas personally and ensure timely assistance reaches victims.
Monitoring and Rescue Operations Underway
The state government said the Integrated Control and Command Centre is monitoring the situation continuously. Ministers assigned to various districts have also been asked to review relief work on the ground.
The Chief Minister has directed district authorities to provide updates to the Chief Minister’s Office every three hours and complete surveys related to crop and house damage at the earliest so compensation can be released quickly.
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