LUCKNOW – A catastrophic thunderstorm accompanied by torrential rain has left a trail of destruction across Uttar Pradesh, with the death toll officially crossing the 100 mark. The sudden and violent weather system, which struck on Wednesday, has resulted in widespread fatalities, dozens of injuries, and significant infrastructural damage.
Regional Impact and Casualty Count
The storm’s fury was felt most acutely in Eastern and Central Uttar Pradesh. According to the latest reports:
- Bhadohi and Prayagraj: These districts emerged as the worst-hit areas, reporting 18 and 17 deaths respectively.
- Mirzapur and Fatehpur: Mirzapur recorded 15 fatalities, while 10 people lost their lives in Fatehpur.
- Other Districts: Significant casualties were reported from Unnao and Budaun (6 each), Pratapgarh and Bareilly (4 each), and Sitapur, Raebareli, Chandauli, Kanpur Dehat, Hardoi, and Sambhal (2 each). Kaushambi, Shahjahanpur, Sonbhadra, and Lakhimpur Kheri each reported one death.
More than 50 individuals are currently being treated for various injuries in local hospitals. The high mortality rate is largely attributed to lightning strikes, wall collapses, and falling trees or electricity poles.
Disruption and Damage
The storm caused severe logistical chaos. Uprooted trees blocked several arterial roads and highways, while falling electricity pylons led to prolonged power outages in multiple districts. Communication networks were also hampered in rural belts, slowing down initial rescue operations.
Government Response and Relief
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed his deep condolences to the bereaved families. Taking swift administrative action, the Chief Minister has issued a directive to state officials to ensure that financial compensation is provided to the families of the deceased within 24 hours.
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District Magistrates have been ordered to conduct immediate surveys of the damage to crops and property to facilitate further relief measures for those affected by the calamity.
