Weather alert: Lightning kills 11 in Bihar and Bengal, landslides block Badrinath Highway; heavy rain floods several states
India weather update: Heavy rainfall continued to impact several parts of the country on Monday and Tuesday, affecting transportation, daily life and public safety. Lightning strikes killed 11 persons in Bihar and West Bengal, while landslides, waterlogging and road damage were reported from several states.
Authorities have also issued fresh weather alerts in many regions, warning residents about continued rainfall, thunderstorms and lightning over the next few days.
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The most tragic impact of the changing weather was reported from Bihar and West Bengal, where lightning strikes claimed 11 lives on Monday. Fourteen other persons were injured in separate incidents.
Out of the total deaths, seven were reported from different districts of Bihar, while four persons lost their lives in West Bengal's Howrah district.
In West Bengal's Howrah district, lightning-related incidents were reported from Jagatballavpur, Amta and Bagnan police station areas.
Two farmers died on the spot after lightning struck while they were working in agricultural fields in Jagatballavpur. Two others sustained serious injuries.
In Amta, a 35-year-old farmer died after being struck by lightning while washing his hands and feet near a pond. Another farmer lost his life in Katapukur village under Bagnan after lightning struck while he was working in a field.
The police have sent all four bodies for post-mortem examination.
Heavy rainfall triggered a landslide on the Badrinath Highway in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district, disrupting traffic after large boulders and debris fell onto the road.
Nearly 200 pilgrims and other travellers have remained stranded since around 9 pm on Monday, waiting for authorities to clear the route and restore movement.
Rainfall has been reported from all districts of Uttarakhand since Monday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted light to moderate rainfall in most areas on Tuesday.
Heavy rain alerts have been issued for Dehradun, Tehri, Nainital and Bageshwar. The weather department has also warned of thunderstorms and lightning in hilly regions.
In Narayanbagar, Chamoli, an hour of intense rainfall caused debris to enter the local market, while mud and rocks blocked the Simli-Almora National Highway.
Meanwhile, in Uttarkashi, nearly 100 metre of the Gangotri Highway developed major cracks, and parts of the road have subsided, affecting vehicular movement.
Continuous overnight rain caused severe waterlogging in Haryana's Ambala and Jhajjar districts. Several roads were submerged, making commuting difficult, while rainwater entered many shops, causing inconvenience to traders and local residents.
Agra has been receiving intermittent rain since around 1 am, leading to severe waterlogging in many areas. Several localities witnessed water accumulation of up to two to three feet, disrupting traffic and normal life. In view of the situation, schools have been declared closed.
In Barabanki, nearly two hours of heavy rain left the bus station flooded, creating difficulties for passengers.
According to the weather department, Madhya Pradesh is unlikely to receive heavy rainfall over the next two days.
However, the influence of a western disturbance is expected to bring another spell of widespread rain from August 6, with heavy showers likely in several districts.
The state has recorded 16% below-normal rainfall since June 1. The biggest rainfall deficit has been reported from the Jabalpur, Shahdol, Rewa and Sagar divisions, where rainfall remains around 20% below average.
The weather department has issued a three-day rain alert for Chhattisgarh beginning Tuesday. Along with heavy rainfall, warnings have also been issued for thunderstorms and lightning in several parts of the state.
Himachal Pradesh is likely to witness rainfall over the next six days. Despite recurring showers, the state has recorded around 9% below-normal rainfall during the ongoing monsoon season.
Meteorological officials have advised people living in vulnerable areas to remain alert, especially in regions where heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and lightning warnings are in effect. Travellers heading towards hilly areas have also been advised to check road conditions before starting their journey, as landslides and road blockages continue to pose risks.
- With inputs from agencies
