Powerful thunderstorms, hailstorms, and high-velocity winds lashed Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh between Sunday night and Monday, causing widespread damage. Trees were uprooted, houses and crops were damaged, power supply was disrupted, and transport services were affected.
Worst Impact in Himachal Pradesh
The worst impact was reported from Himachal Pradesh, where windstorms and lightning damaged houses, cowsheds, schools, and roads in Kullu, Kangra, and adjoining districts. Around 24 houses and 12 cowsheds were damaged in Kullu district after a powerful windstorm struck around 3 am on Monday. Tin roofs were blown away, and uprooted trees damaged several structures. The Aut-Luhri Highway 305 remained blocked for hours at Jalori Jot after trees fell on the road. A building near the Bijli Mahadev temple complex was also damaged after strong winds blew away its roof and a tree crashed onto the structure. The Kullu administration said at least seven school buildings suffered partial damage, causing losses estimated at Rs 6.8 lakh.
Damage in Kangra and Other Districts
In Kangra district, uprooted trees fell on the Pathankot-Jogindernagar railway track at multiple locations. Power outages were reported from parts of Una, Hamirpur, Shimla, Sirmaur, and Solan districts. In Palampur, a linesman named Mohan Lal died of electrocution while repairing storm-hit power lines on Monday morning.
Punjab and Haryana Affected
In Punjab, hailstorms accompanied by rain were reported from Moga, Barnala, and Ferozepur, while gusty winds touched 120 kmph in Amritsar. Haryana also witnessed strong winds in several districts. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said thunderstorms accompanied by squally winds of 50-120 kmph were recorded at isolated places in Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, while Haryana witnessed winds of up to 50 kmph.
Rainfall Data
Punjab recorded 115% excess rainfall in the 24 hours ending Monday morning, while Himachal Pradesh recorded 399% excess rainfall during the same period. Haryana remained rain deficient despite isolated showers.
Weather Alerts
The IMD has issued an orange alert for thunderstorms, lightning, hailstorms, and gusty winds in parts of Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh until May 12, followed by a yellow alert until May 15.
Damage Trail
- 24 houses and 12 cowsheds damaged in Kullu district
- Seven school buildings partially damaged in Kullu; estimated loss Rs 6.8 lakh
- Aut-Luhri Highway 305 blocked for hours after trees uprooted at Jalori Jot
- Building near Bijli Mahadev temple complex damaged
- Trees fell on Pathankot-Jogindernagar railway track in Kangra
- Power outages reported from parts of Kullu, Una, Hamirpur, Shimla, and Solan
- Hailstorms reported from Moga, Barnala, and Ferozepur in Punjab
- Gusty winds touched 120 kmph in Amritsar
- Linesman electrocuted in Palampur while repairing power lines
Saach Pass Reopened
The high-altitude Saach Pass connecting remote Pangi valley with the rest of Chamba district was reopened for light vehicles after seven months. Officials said the route was opened nearly a month ahead of schedule. The pass, located at an altitude of around 4,400 metres, remains closed every winter due to heavy snowfall.
