An intense spell of unseasonal rain, hail and lightning swept across Uttar Pradesh on May 13, leaving at least 111 people dead and dozens injured. The extreme weather affected 26 districts, damaging homes, uprooting trees and disrupting daily life across large parts of the state. Emergency teams have been deployed as authorities continue relief and rescue efforts on the ground.
As per multiple reports, officials said that structural collapses and lightning strikes accounted for a significant number of fatalities. Many areas reported fallen electric poles and damaged infrastructure, adding to the scale of disruption.
“Due to bad weather on May 13, including storms, rain, hailstorms, and lightning, reports of 111 deaths were received from 26 districts. 72 persons were injured, 170 livestock losses and damage to 227 houses have been reported in the state,” read a statement from the Relief Commissioner.
Also Read | ‘Sky turned completely dark’: At least 96 killed as deadly storms sweep through northern India
Relief operations in progress
State authorities have stepped up response measures following the disaster. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed district officials to visit affected areas and ensure timely support for victims and their families.
This is horrific and shocking.
Approx 70 people, including women & children, were killed in yesterday’s massive storm in UP.
What kind of alert system do we even have? No emergency preparedness, only reel optics.
Also look at “smart villages.” pic.twitter.com/ObiUvSa6EX
— Manu (@mshahi0024) May 14, 2026
Officials from the revenue and agriculture departments have been asked to assess the damage, while insurance agencies are expected to submit detailed reports. The administration has also been instructed to remain alert amid concerns of further weather-related risks.
#WATCH | Bareilly, UP | Man seen in viral video being flung through the air during violent storms in UP yesterday, Nanhe Miyan, says, “I am a labourer… I was working when the storm struck… That’s when the structure began to lift into the air. There were four other people with… pic.twitter.com/ClE754y2nc
— ANI (@ANI) May 14, 2026
Global leaders express solidarity
Condolences have poured in from across the world as news of the tragedy spread. Russian President Vladimir Putin wrote to both Droupadi Murmu and Narendra Modi, expressing support for those affected.
Also Read | Bareilly man swept 50 feet into air during UP storm, suffers severe injuries | WATCH
“Please accept our deepest condolences on the numerous casualties and widespread destruction caused by the cyclone in Uttar Pradesh. Please convey my words of sympathy and support to the families and friends of the victims, as well as wishes for a speedy recovery to all those affected by the natural disaster,” Putin wrote.
✉️ President Putin sent a message of condolences to President of India @rashtrapatibhvn & Prime Minister @narendramodi:
✍️ Please accept my deepest condolences over the heavy loss of life & large-scale destruction caused by the cyclone in Uttar Pradesh.https://t.co/ZiSzmRoSj2 pic.twitter.com/BwaM367Gay
— MFA Russia (@mfa_russia) May 14, 2026
The United Arab Emirates also issued a statement ahead of Prime Minister Modi’s scheduled visit, saying, “The United Arab Emirates has expressed its sincere condolences and solidarity with the Republic of India following the storm that swept through Uttar Pradesh, which resulted in dozens of deaths and injuries, as well as significant damage”.
Singapore High Commissioner Simon Wong shared his message on X, stating, “Shocked and saddened by the news of the loss of lives in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh after the sudden storm. My heartfelt condolences and prayers to the families.”
Authorities continue to monitor the situation as recovery efforts remain underway.
