09 May 2018 | 09:42 AM UTC
India: Storm alerts continue May 9 /update 2
Numerous states still under storm alert on May 9; disruptions in transportation, power and telecommunication networks likely
Event
The India Meteorological Department has issued severe rain and thunderstorm warnings for Wednesday, May 9, in several states of India, including Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Jharkhand, Manipur, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tripura, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal, with winds up to 70 km/h (43 mph) expected. Low visibility, power disruption, and property damage were reported in the above-mentioned states in the previous days.
Further disruptions to traffic, as well as power and telecommunications networks, are expected in the coming hours and days.
Rain and thunderstorms are expected to continue in the coming days.
Context
A powerful and deadly dust storm hit northern India on May 2. Some 125 people have been killed as of May 7; this represents the highest death toll in 20 years for a dust storm, according to local authorities. Some of the most affected states included Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Uttarakhand, where winds of up to 130 km/h (80 mph) toppled homes and power lines, and covered roads in debris. Agra district (Uttar Pradesh state) was reportedly one of the areas most severely affected by the storm.
Advice
Individuals present in affected areas are advised to adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities. Anticipate temporary disruptions to power, telecommunications, and transportation.
