Thunderstorms, heavy rain and b winds continued across several districts of Uttar Pradesh as the India Meteorological Department issued an alert for 44 districts in the state. Heavy rainfall was recorded in 10 cities, while a tent collapsed in Lucknow due to b winds, triggering panic in the area.
According to the weather department, wind speeds may reach 60 to 70 kilometres per hour in the coming hours. The department also warned of thunderstorms and lightning strikes in several districts and advised people to remain alert and avoid unnecessary outdoor movement.
Dark clouds covered several parts of the state since morning. Strong winds suddenly intensified in many cities during the afternoon, followed by rainfall. Some areas experienced near-dark conditions during daytime hours.
In Lucknow, b winds caused tree branches to fall on roads in several places. Electricity poles and hoardings were also seen swaying. Reports of power supply disruption emerged from some areas.
The sudden weather change brought relief from intense heat, but b winds and rain affected normal life. Waterlogging was reported on roads, while traffic movement slowed down. People travelling to offices and markets faced difficulties.
The weather department said unstable weather conditions in the state were being caused by a western disturbance and moisture coming from the Bay of Bengal. It said these conditions were increasing thunderstorm and rainfall activity across multiple districts.
Rainfall and b winds were also reported in Kanpur, Prayagraj, Varanasi, Gorakhpur, Ayodhya, Bareilly, Meerut and Agra, among other districts in Uttar Pradesh. Concerns have increased in rural areas over possible crop damage due to b winds.
The administration directed all district officials to remain on alert. Teams from the disaster management and electricity departments have also been activated to respond to any emergency situation.
Experts said such weather changes during May indicate pre-monsoon activity. However, they warned that b winds and lightning incidents could prove dangerous.
Doctors advised people not to stand in open areas during adverse weather conditions and to avoid taking shelter under trees. They also appealed for cautious use of mobile phones and electronic devices during lightning activity.
Videos of rainstorms and b winds have also gone viral on social media. Several videos showed tents being blown away by b winds, swaying trees and roads filled with rainwater.
Local residents said the weather change provided relief from heat, but b winds and power cuts created difficulties. Many people remained indoors until late evening.
The weather department warned that adverse weather conditions may continue in several parts of the state for the next 24 hours. Thunderstorms, rainfall and lightning activity are also likely to continue on the following day.
The administration in Uttar Pradesh remains on alert over the weather situation. Authorities have appealed to people to follow weather department advisories and stay in safe locations during adverse weather conditions.
