Uttar Pradesh is experiencing a significant weather shift as heavy rains and strong winds sweep across the state starting Thursday, April 10, 2025. Residents, who have been enduring a week of relentless heat, can finally expect some relief as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued alerts for thunderstorms and rain in various districts.
On Wednesday, April 9, the weather began to change, with winds blowing from the east and light rain reported in areas like Sant Kabir Nagar and Bahraich. Atul Kumar Singh, a senior meteorologist at the Lucknow Meteorological Center, indicated that the western disturbances currently affecting the region are responsible for this abrupt change. He noted that these disturbances will enhance the intensity and coverage of rainfall, leading to a drop in daytime temperatures by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius while nighttime temperatures may rise.
As the storm system moved in, cities like Lucknow and Kanpur faced sudden downpours early Thursday morning. Reports indicate that by 8 AM, Lucknow was enveloped in darkness as heavy rains began, accompanied by winds gusting at speeds of 50 to 60 kilometers per hour. The downpour resulted in significant water accumulation on roads, disrupting daily activities and transportation.
In addition to rain, hailstorms were reported in several districts, including Bahraich, Lakhimpur Kheri, and Pilibhit, causing extensive damage to crops. Thousands of bighas of wheat crops have been affected, particularly in Bahraich, where the hail covered roads and fields, leading to considerable agricultural losses.
In Lucknow, the heavy rains caused power outages in multiple colonies, as the storm brought down trees and damaged electrical lines. Residents were advised to exercise caution due to the risks posed by the severe weather, including lightning strikes. Tragically, a woman in Firozabad lost her life due to electrocution during the storm.
The IMD has issued an Orange Alert for Lucknow and surrounding districts, warning of moderate thunderstorms and advising residents to stay updated with the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) guidelines. The alert is in effect until 11:00 AM IST on Thursday, April 10, 2025.
As the weather continues to evolve, the IMD forecasts that the rain will persist across various regions of Uttar Pradesh for the next three to four days. While temporary reductions in temperature are expected where rain occurs, the overall heat wave conditions may not see significant improvement.
In a broader context, the sudden weather shift highlights the impact of climate variability in the region, as residents have faced extreme heat prior to this storm. On Wednesday, temperatures in districts like Agra and Jhansi soared above 40 degrees Celsius, causing discomfort among the populace. The IMD's predictions for continued rainfall could provide a much-needed respite from the heat.
As the storm progresses, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and prepared for further updates and potential advisories from local authorities. The interplay of weather patterns, such as the western disturbances, serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of climate in Uttar Pradesh, affecting both daily life and agricultural practices.
In summary, the weather in Uttar Pradesh has taken a dramatic turn, with heavy rains and thunderstorms expected to continue for the coming days. The implications for agriculture, daily life, and safety are significant, prompting both caution and preparation among residents as they navigate this sudden change.
