A powerful and destructive storm tore through Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday, killing more than 100 people and leaving widespread destruction across several districts of India’s most populous state.
According to state rescue and relief officials, the violent weather system brought intense rain, hail, dust storms, and strong winds that uprooted trees, collapsed walls, damaged homes, and disrupted daily life across northern India.
Authorities said at least 104 people were killed, while 59 others were injured. The storm also damaged 87 homes and killed more than 100 livestock animals.
The worst-affected region was around Prayagraj, one of India’s major Hindu pilgrimage centres, where officials reported significant casualties and structural damage.
Residents described terrifying scenes as the skies suddenly darkened and powerful winds swept through communities.
“The entire area where we live turned black for around half an hour,” said Ashok Rai, a resident of Sonbhadra district, speaking to Reuters.
Television footage showed uprooted trees, collapsed roadside structures, damaged vehicles, and large advertising billboards thrown across streets by the storm’s intense winds.
In one widely broadcast video, strong winds reportedly lifted a man into the air after tearing him away from a tin structure he was holding onto in Bareilly district. Reports said he survived but suffered injuries.
Officials said many of the deaths occurred due to collapsing walls, falling trees, and flying debris.
Yogi Adityanath, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, directed local authorities to immediately assist affected families and ensure financial compensation is distributed to survivors within 24 hours.
The storm struck during India’s pre-monsoon season, when severe weather events frequently impact northern states before the arrival of the annual monsoon rains.
Meteorologists warn that extreme weather incidents, including heatwaves, dust storms, and sudden heavy rainfall, have become increasingly severe and unpredictable across parts of India in recent years, causing growing concern about infrastructure preparedness and public safety.