Heavy Rain and Storm Wreak Havoc Across Himachal, Uttarakhand and J&K

New Delhi: These days the weather is very bad in the mountains. Storm, rain, hail and lightning have deprived people of their sleep in Himachal, Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir. Someone's roof was blown away, a tree fell on someone's house and there was loss of life and property at many places.

How much damage was caused in Himachal?

Storm and rain caused havoc in many districts of Himachal on Sunday night. Houses, schools and cattle sheds were destroyed in Mandi, Kullu, Shimla, Kangra, Chamba, Una and Hamirpur. About 70 houses were affected in Mandi alone.

What happened due to lightning in Kullu?

Lightning struck Naggar in Kullu and one person lost his life and two were injured. 40 sheep and goats also died in Shila Nala. More than 2000 transformers were shut down, the entire area was engulfed in darkness and 36 roads had to be closed.

What happened to the farmers' crops?

It was harvest time and rain and hail destroyed the wheat crop kept in the fields. Apple and other crops were also damaged. The farmer who worked hard throughout the year, his crop was destroyed before his eyes.

What happened in Uttarakhand?

The cold once again increased due to rain and hail in Uttarakhand. It rained heavily in Dehradun, Mussoorie, Pithoragarh and Bageshwar. The Meteorological Department has issued a 48-hour orange alert in many districts including Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Chamoli.

Why did helicopters have to be stopped in Kedarnath?

There was such a dense fog in Kedarnath that nothing could be seen ahead. Two helicopters had to be stopped at Agastyamuni helipad. Only when the weather cleared up a bit could flights begin.

What was the situation in Jammu and Kashmir?

Strong winds and lightning caused a lot of damage in Jammu and Kashmir also. BSNL tower fell on a house in Samba. 250 poles and 9 transformers were broken in Kathua. 90 sheep died due to lightning in Ganderbal.

What will the weather be like ahead?

According to the Meteorological Department, rain and storm may continue in the mountains and surrounding plains till May 15. The administration also has the same appeal that do not go out of the house unless absolutely necessary, take care of yourself and your family.