89 Dead as Storms, Rain Lash Uttar Pradesh; CM Orders Immediate Relief

LUCKNOW, May 14: At least 89 people were killed and 53 injured as strong storms, heavy rain, hailstorm and lightning battered several districts of Uttar Pradesh on May 13, causing widespread damage to houses, livestock and infrastructure, officials said.

The Relief Commissioner’s office said 114 livestock losses and damage to 87 houses have also been reported. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed officials to ensure financial assistance reaches affected families within 24 hours.

According to an official statement, all divisional commissioners and district magistrates have been asked to verify incidents “with full sensitivity,” establish direct contact with victims’ families and extend necessary assistance. The state government is monitoring the situation closely and releasing funds to districts as required.

District-wise reports indicate significant casualties across the state. In Prayagraj, 17 deaths were reported from Handia, Phulpur, Soraon, Meja and Sadar areas. Bhadohi reported at least 16 deaths, while Fatehpur recorded nine deaths and 16 injuries, with several houses damaged and trees and electric poles uprooted.

In Pratapgarh, four people died in separate incidents involving wall and shed collapses and lightning strikes. Police said victims included Bhim Yadav (25), Bhushan Pandey (56), Shanti Devi (46) and Lal Bahadur (44).

Kanpur Dehat reported two deaths, including a 19-year-old woman struck by lightning in Bhauthari village. A 60-year-old man was also injured in the incident. Authorities have sought detailed reports on human and livestock losses and assured compensation as per government norms.

In Deoria, two persons, including Komal Yadav (62) and Ramnath Prasad (65), died due to lightning strikes, while two others were injured. In Sonbhadra, Madhav Singh (38) died after being trapped under a tree uprooted during the storm.

The Chief Minister has directed officials to visit affected areas, ensure all possible assistance to victims and conduct a comprehensive damage assessment. Revenue and agriculture departments, along with insurance companies, have been asked to survey losses and submit a report to the government. (Agencies)