Two people died and three others were injured when a severe storm accompanied by heavy rains and strong winds hit Baripada city in Odisha, causing widespread damage, police said.
Heavy rain, stormy winds, and lightning during the storm led to the uprooting of trees in several areas and the blocking of main roads.
A tree reportedly fell on a moving motorcycle near Asangoda on Kolyana Road, killing the driver on the spot. Another motorcyclist died in Khunta along Baripada-Udala road after crashing into a fallen tree amid heavy rain and poor visibility.
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The officials identified the two deceased as Nabadas Hansda and Navin Murmu.
Three others were injured in separate storm-related incidents and were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
The sudden onset of the storm late at night led to widespread disruption, with several roads closed due to fallen trees, officials said.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the cyclonic circulation remains active over Odisha and adjoining areas, resulting in unstable weather conditions. Under its influence, the IMD has forecast thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and possible hailstorms at isolated places across the state during the next seven days.
