STORMS, HEAVY RAIN LIKELY IN MANY UP DISTRICTS

LUCKNOW: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a fresh warning of heavy rainfall and associated weather disturbances in 28 districts Uttar Pradesh for the next 48 hours, while more than 12 Uttar Pradesh districts, including Lucknow, received above average rainfall on Wednesday.

The adverse weather conditions are caused by Cyclone Tauktae and approaching western disturbances.

“The conditions will lead to heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places across Uttar Pradesh on May 20 and 21,” the IMD statement read. Heavy rains will be accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning at isolated places with gusty winds over the next 48 hours.

Considering the forecast, the district administrations concerned have been alerted to take steps to minimise damage caused by the weather. “We are monitoring the changing weather conditions closely and are in touch with district officials to minimise any loss due to extreme weather,” said JP Gupta, director, state MeT department.

Meanwhile the change in weather conditions brought down temperatures across the state. In Lucknow, the maximum temperature fell to 29 degrees Celsius which is 9.7 degrees below normal, while the minimum temperature was 23 degrees Celsius.

Though people couldn’t throng the streets to enjoy the rain due to the lockdown in Lucknow, they did make the most of it staying at home. “the day was different and brought a sense of happiness. I like rain,” said Tulika Pandey, a resident of Ashiana.

IN LUCKNOW, THE MAXIMUM TEMP FELL TO 29 DEGREES CELSIUS WHICH IS 9.7 DEGREES BELOW NORMAL