08 May 2018 | 08:42 AM UTC
India: Storm to affect numerous states May 8 /update 1
Storm alerts issued for numerous states, including New Dehli May 8; schools in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and New Delhi state to remain closed
Event
The India Meteorological Department has issued severe rain and thunderstorm alerts for the afternoon and evening of Tuesday, May 8, in several parts of northern India, including New Delhi , Assam, Bihar, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Jammu and Kashmir, Kerala, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Tripura, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chandigarh, and West Bengal, with winds up to 50-70 km/h (31-43 mph) expected. Low visibility, power disruption, and several damages to property were reported in the above-mentioned states on Monday, May 7.
On a related note, schools in Haryana and Uttar Pradesh states, as well as evening schools in New Delhi have been closed.
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 until May 9.
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.
