UP Storm Horror: 96 Dead as Rain, Dust Storm and Falling Trees Trigger Massive Destruction Across Uttar Pradesh

A devastating storm system accompanied by heavy rain and powerful winds ripped through several districts of Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday, leaving at least 96 people dead and more than 50 injured in one of the state’s deadliest weather disasters in recent months. The massive storm swept across eastern and central Uttar Pradesh, flattening homes, uprooting trees, snapping electric poles and throwing normal life into chaos. Several districts reported fatalities caused by collapsing walls, falling trees, lightning strikes and roof cave-ins as people rushed for shelter during the sudden weather assault.

According to district-wise figures released by authorities, Bhadohi recorded the highest number of deaths at 18, closely followed by Prayagraj where 17 people lost their lives. Mirzapur reported 15 deaths, while Fatehpur accounted for 10 fatalities. Four people each were killed in Pratapgarh and Bareilly, while six deaths each were reported from Unnao and Badaun. Two deaths each were also confirmed in Sitapur, Rae Bareli, Chandauli, Kanpur Dehat, Hardoi and Sambhal. One death each was reported from Kaushambi, Shahjahanpur, Sonbhadra and Lakhimpur districts.

In Bareilly, the gale-force winds ripped through the city, lifting a man off the ground as he clung desperately to a tin shed. In a split second, the corrugated roof acted like a sail, catapulting both the structure and the man several feet into the air. It is reported that the man sustained serious injuries and is currently in hospital. 

The storm left behind widespread destruction across villages and towns. In several districts, giant trees crashed onto homes, vehicles and roadside structures. Electricity poles were uprooted in many areas, leading to prolonged power outages and communication disruptions that slowed rescue operations. Officials said many victims died after mud houses and boundary walls collapsed under the impact of heavy rain and fierce winds. Children and elderly residents were among the dead. Prayagraj emerged as one of the worst-hit regions, with fatalities reported across multiple tehsils including Handia, Phulpur, Soraon, Meja and Sadar. District authorities are also assessing extensive damage to livestock, homes and agricultural land.

In Badaun, two young girls reportedly died after a wall collapsed while they were taking shelter from the storm. Other victims across districts included farmers, labourers, truck drivers and daily wage workers caught outdoors during the sudden weather change.

Bhadohi witnessed severe infrastructure damage, with electricity poles and large trees crashing onto roads and residential areas. Rescue and relief teams faced difficulties in reaching affected villages due to blocked roads and disrupted connectivity.

Fatehpur too suffered major losses, with several deaths linked to collapsing structures and falling trees. Local officials said multiple injured persons are currently undergoing treatment in nearby hospitals.

In Raebareli district, a severe storm accompanied by heavy rain and powerful winds left a trail of destruction on Wednesday. Incidents of fallen trees, damaged electricity lines, and accidents were reported across multiple locations. Tragically, two people lost their lives while nearly two dozen others sustained injuries. District Magistrate Sarnit Kaur has directed officials to expedite relief and rescue operations, ensure immediate medical treatment for the injured, and provide compensation to the families of the deceased without delay. Strict instructions have also been issued to the electricity department to repair damaged lines and restore power supply in affected areas.

As the scale of the tragedy became clear, Yogi Adityanath expressed condolences to the families of the victims and directed officials to ensure compensation is distributed within 24 hours.

At the state level, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed condolences to the families of those killed in the storms and directed district magistrates across Uttar Pradesh to prioritize relief measures. He emphasized the immediate release of compensation and ordered continuous monitoring of rescue operations. The administration has also announced that updates regarding relief distribution and rescue progress will be shared regularly through social media channels to keep the public informed.

The India Meteorological Department has meanwhile cautioned that unstable weather conditions may continue in parts of Uttar Pradesh over the next few days, raising concerns in already affected districts struggling to recover from the destruction.

Relief Commissioner Dr. Hrishikesh Bhaskar Yashod confirmed that 89 people have lost their lives and 53 others are injured due to the devastating rain and storm in Uttar Pradesh. He said district magistrates are engaged in large-scale relief and rescue operations, with the primary focus on pulling survivors out from under debris. Authorities are also working to ensure that ex-gratia compensation is disbursed within the next 24 hours.

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