Yasmin Bilal
Communities are grappling with devastation after powerful dust storms and lightning swept through several regions in northern India, leaving at least 96 people dead and causing extensive damage.
The severe weather struck late Wednesday, bringing strong winds, heavy rain and frequent lightning that overwhelmed many areas with little warning. Homes and makeshift structures collapsed in several districts, while lightning strikes and falling debris accounted for a significant number of the deaths.
Most fatalities were reported in Uttar Pradesh, where emergency teams have been deployed to clear debris, search damaged areas and assist survivors. Dozens of injured residents have been taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Relief efforts are ongoing as authorities coordinate support for affected families. Weather officials have warned that unstable conditions may continue in parts of the region, urging residents to remain cautious.
The disaster has again underscored the vulnerability of densely populated areas to sudden extreme weather events, particularly during seasonal transitions when storms can intensify rapidly.