Name of the Disaster:
Heavy rain and hailstorm in Manipur
About the Disaster:
On 5th May, 2024 around 1:30 PM, Manipur experienced a severe hailstorm all over the state that lasted for 15 minutes resulted in significant extensive damage to houses, property, infrastructure, crops, killing of birds, injuries to animals and even uprooted trees in the Imphal valley. The hailstorm was so intense that it left parts of the valley covered with 4-5 inches of hail and led to urban flooding in some parts of Manipur. Affected districts include Bishnupur, Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Kakching, Kangpokpi, Noney, Jiribam, and Pherzwal in Manipur and Cachar district in Assam.
Current Scenario:
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One man was killed by lightning in Yangdong, Kakching district, while his wife escaped with injuries in thunderstorm and lightning.
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Due to the falling of trees on electric posts and wires, the power supply was cut off in most parts of the state.
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Three casualties were reported due to lightning.
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Residential houses suffered extensive damage to roofs, windows, and siding. Many structures have been blown away by the storm, rendering them uninhabitable. Numerous houses, particularly in areas like Canchipur and Tera in Imphal West, sustained damage, with hailstones puncturing tin roofs, exacerbating the destruction.
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Agriculture, a vital sector in Manipur, has been devastated. Crops have been pummelling by the hailstones, leading to significant yield losses. Farmers are facing immense financial losses and uncertainty about their livelihoods.
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Dozens of birds, including migratory birds, were seen lying dead on the streets due to the impact.