At least 111 people have died and 72 others were injured after powerful thunderstorms and lightning strikes swept across India’s northern state of Uttar Pradesh, according to official reports.
The severe storm system, accompanied by heavy rainfall and strong winds on Wednesday, caused widespread destruction across multiple districts of the state. Numerous homes were damaged, while hundreds of uprooted trees disrupted road transportation and communication networks.
Relief officials said the death toll gradually increased as reports from affected areas continued to emerge. Authorities have instructed local administrations to provide emergency financial assistance to affected families.
Meanwhile, a dramatic video circulating on social media showed a man in Bareilly district being lifted into the air while clinging to a tin roof during the storm. He later survived after falling into a distant waterlogged field.
The man reportedly said he was trying to protect the roof of his house when strong winds swept him away. Local residents quickly rescued him and rushed him to a hospital for treatment.
Experts say extreme weather events during India’s pre-monsoon season have been increasing due to climate change. India’s Meteorological Department had recently issued warnings regarding severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall risks in several regions.
Rescue and rehabilitation operations are currently ongoing across Uttar Pradesh, with authorities working to deliver emergency assistance to affected communities.
Source: CNN