Heavy rainfall has affected several regions of Uttar Pradesh as monsoon conditions strengthen. Lucknow recorded 125.8 mm of rain in a 21-hour period ending Saturday morning. The downpour, accompanied by strong winds, has caused damage to standing crops in rural areas.
The India Meteorological Department has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall at several places in eastern Uttar Pradesh on Saturday, while thunderstorms and gusty winds are also likely. Rain and thundershowers may continue at several places on Sunday. The latest weather system, a depression over northeast Madhya Pradesh and adjoining north Chhattisgarh, was moving north-northwestwards towards southeast Uttar Pradesh. The intensified rainfall brought waterlogging and traffic disruptions at several places, while residents in low-lying areas faced difficulties as rain continued through the night. The impact was also visible in Ayodhya, where rain and strong winds affected movement around Ram Path, the Ram temple, Hanumangarhi, Kanak Bhawan and the Saryu area. Relief and rescue agencies have been asked to remain prepared for flooding, waterlogging, lightning and strong winds, while district administrations have been directed to issue weather warnings through public address systems and local communication channels. The IMD has warned that intense rainfall could trigger flash floods in some watersheds of Uttar Pradesh. People have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel during thunderstorms and lightning and stay away from open areas, trees and water bodies.
At 5.30 am on Saturday, it was centred about 230 km south of Prayagraj, officials said. Officials have also been asked to assess damage caused by excessive rainfall and lightning and provide assistance to affected families within 24 hours.
