Lucknow, August 4, 2025 – Torrential rainfall over the past 48 hours has wreaked havoc across several districts of Uttar Pradesh, leading to widespread waterlogging, flash floods, school closures, and disrupted transport services. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Red Alert for at least 10 districts, warning of more intense rainfall in the coming days.
IMD Issues Red Alert for Several Districts
The IMD has predicted continuous rainfall for the next 72 hours, particularly in eastern and central UP, including districts such as Gorakhpur, Varanasi, Prayagraj, Lucknow, Barabanki, Kanpur, and Ayodhya. The alert warns of thunderstorms, lightning, and extremely heavy showers exceeding 200 mm in 24 hours.
“People in vulnerable areas should remain indoors. Flash floods and landslides are possible in low-lying zones,” said Dr. D. Sharma, a senior meteorologist at the IMD Lucknow office.
Flooded Roads, Collapsed Houses, and Power Outages
Major cities like Lucknow, Kanpur, and Varanasi have reported knee-deep water on key roads, severely affecting traffic movement. Visuals show vehicles submerged in water, fallen trees blocking roads, and local residents using boats to travel.
In Gorakhpur, at least 7 houses collapsed in the last 12 hours, and several others are at risk due to softened foundations. Over 2,000 families have been shifted to safer locations.
Electricity outages have hit more than 500 localities, with power supply yet to resume in many parts due to damaged transformers and snapped wires. Discom officials said they are working round the clock to restore the grid.
Schools, Colleges Shut Down in Affected Areas
In light of the worsening situation, the Uttar Pradesh government has ordered closure of all schools and colleges in the worst-hit districts for the next three days. Examinations scheduled for this week have been postponed.
The Basic Education Department issued instructions to all district-level officers to ensure student safety and coordinate relief camps for children affected by the floods.
Rail and Road Transport Severely Hit
Several trains in the North-Eastern Railway zone have been cancelled or diverted. Tracks in places like Deoria and Ballia are submerged, and railway authorities have advised travelers to check schedules before leaving home.
NH-28 and NH-31 have reported waterlogging and road cave-ins, forcing the Uttar Pradesh Police to divert traffic through rural routes. Long queues of vehicles can be seen near Barabanki and Faizabad highway intersections.
State-run buses are running on partial routes due to washed-out roads, while Lucknow Metro services remained suspended for a few hours early morning due to water entering the underground sections.
NDRF and SDRF Teams Deployed
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath held an emergency meeting with disaster response officials and ordered the deployment of NDRF and SDRF teams in the most affected zones. Rescue operations are ongoing in districts like Gonda, Bahraich, and Basti.
“Saving lives is our top priority. Relief camps with food, water, and medical aid are being set up. Citizens are advised to avoid unnecessary travel,” said CM Yogi in a press statement.
The government has also launched helpline numbers and an emergency WhatsApp chatbot for residents to request assistance or report damage.
Rivers Overflowing: Ganga, Ghaghra, and Rapti in Spate
The situation is further aggravated as major rivers including Ganga, Ghaghra, and Rapti are flowing above the danger mark. The Water Resources Department has issued warnings for areas near river banks.
In Ballia, over 3,000 hectares of agricultural land have been submerged, destroying standing paddy crops. Similar damage has been reported in parts of Lakhimpur Kheri and Sitapur.
Casualties and Rescue Updates
As per the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), 13 deaths have been reported so far—mostly due to house collapses, electrocution, and drowning incidents. Over 150 people have been rescued from flood-prone regions using inflatable boats.
Efforts are ongoing to reach remote villages where mobile connectivity has been lost. Drones are being used to assess damage and drop food packets.
Relief Measures and Compensation
The UP government has announced ₹4 lakh ex-gratia compensation for families of the deceased and ₹95,100 for those whose houses have been destroyed. Farmers can apply for relief under the PM Fasal Bima Yojana.
Multiple NGOs and volunteer groups have joined hands to distribute ration kits, medicines, and clothes to displaced families.
Weather Forecast: More Rain Likely
The IMD warns that another low-pressure area is developing over the Bay of Bengal, likely to intensify and move towards the Gangetic plains. UP could witness continued heavy rainfall until at least August 7, 2025.
“People should stock essential supplies, charge their phones, and avoid venturing near open drains or rivers. Keep emergency kits ready,” advised an NDMA official.
Social Media Flooded with Updates
#UPRain, #FloodAlert, and #LucknowRains are trending on Twitter/X as residents post videos of waterlogged streets, stranded school buses, and emergency rescue.
Local influencers and news channels are live-streaming updates from ground zero, helping spread awareness and direct help to those in need.
How to Stay Safe During Heavy Rains
- Avoid stepping into waterlogged areas.
- Turn off electrical mains if water enters your home.
- Keep essential documents and valuables in waterproof containers.
- Follow local administration on Twitter/X for updates.
- Call 112 or use UP Disaster Relief WhatsApp number for emergencies.
The heavy rainfall in Uttar Pradesh has created a statewide emergency. While the administration is working swiftly to manage the crisis, public cooperation is essential. Citizens are urged to follow safety guidelines and stay indoors unless absolutely necessary.
Stay tuned to Vibrant Patrika for continuous updates, government notifications, and weather forecasts as the situation evolves.
