Varanasi Weather Turns Violent: Dust Storm and Rain Wreak Havoc, Farmers Fear Crop Loss

VARANASI, April 13 Weather disruptions once again jolted Varanasi and eastern Uttar Pradesh on Sunday morning as a powerful dust storm followed by heavy rain swept across the region, causing widespread damage and deepening the worries of local farmers. Around 8:30 AM, gusty winds uprooted trees, broke branches, and tore off tin roofs in both urban and rural areas. While no major injuries were reported, the sudden storm disrupted daily life and triggered power outages across several districts.

Agriculture Takes a Hit as Harvest-Ready Wheat Gets Soaked

Farmers across the region are facing rising concerns as their wheat harvests, ready for threshing and bundling, were left soaked and vulnerable. Many had not yet recovered from the storm on April 10, and the latest weather event has dealt a further blow to standing crops and post-harvest storage. In several areas, hail also accompanied the rain, damaging crops further and knocking unripe mangoes (tikore) off the trees.

The sudden weather change has threatened livelihoods, with many fearing complete loss of their wheat harvest due to waterlogging and damp conditions in storage areas. Experts have warned that any further moisture could lead to spoilage and fungal infections in stored crops.

Strong Winds, Power Cuts and Boat Services Suspended

The storm forced authorities to shut down power supply temporarily in many areas as a precaution. Wind speeds reached 20–30 km/h in the morning, tapering off to around 11 km/h by early afternoon. The gusty winds created hazardous conditions on roads, while boatmen at the Ganga ghats suspended ferry operations during the storm for safety.

Minor waterlogging was also reported in low-lying neighborhoods, affecting movement and causing temporary flooding in streets and alleys.

Temperature Drops as Weather Rollercoaster Continues

Sunday’s storm brought with it a noticeable dip in temperatures. By 1 PM, the maximum temperature had settled at 32°C and the minimum at 22°C. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had already issued alerts for unstable weather, and forecasts suggest similar fluctuations could continue over the next 24 hours.

Residents and farmers are advised to remain alert and take necessary precautions to prevent further losses, particularly in terms of crop storage and personal safety during potential follow-up weather disturbances.