Duststorms and lightning kill at least 96 people in northern India | Weather News
Severe Weather in Uttar Pradesh Claims 96 Lives
Published: May 14, 2026
Dust storms, intense rainfall, and lightning have resulted in the deaths of at least 96 individuals in Uttar Pradesh, India’s most populous state. Authorities report that over 50 people sustained injuries from various weather-related incidents across multiple districts on Wednesday.
Officials indicated that many fatalities were linked to falling trees, collapsing structures, and lightning strikes. Emergency teams, equipped with chainsaws and cranes, are actively working to remove debris from roads and railway tracks in affected areas.
Narendra Srivastava, an administrative official, stated that response teams have been deployed to assist those impacted, as extensive damage has occurred to homes, crops, and power infrastructure, particularly in rural regions.
In the Prayagraj district, residents described scenes of chaos as strong winds ravaged neighborhoods. Local resident Ram Kishore recounted the rapid onset of the storm: “The storm came suddenly, and the sky turned completely dark within minutes. Tin roofs were flying, and people ran indoors. We could hear trees falling throughout the evening.”
In neighboring Bhadohi district, Savitri Devi described her family’s close call. “We rushed outside when the walls started shaking because of the wind. Our roof collapsed moments later. We spent the night at a relative’s house,” she said.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has instructed officials to complete relief operations within 24 hours and ensure that emergency aid and compensation are provided to affected families.
As is typical in northern India, such severe storms occur from March to June, preceding the arrival of the annual monsoon rains.
