07 May 2018 | 08:48 AM UTC
India: High alert for storms May 7-8
High alerts for storms issued for numerous states May 7-8; schools in Haryana state to remain closed
Event
Indian authorities issued a 48-hour-long high storm alert on Monday, May 7, through Tuesday, May 8, for numerous states including Assam, Bihar, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Jammu and Kashmir, Kerala, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Tripura, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal. Additionally, two territories under government control, New Delhi and Chandigarh, have also been issued thunderstorm warnings.
On a related note, schools in Haryana state will remain closed May 7-8 due to the inclement weather.
Disruptions to traffic, as well as to power and telecommunications networks are expected in the coming hours and days as recovery efforts continue.
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 include 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.
