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| Villagers clearing hailstones from a road in Manipur on March 15, 2026. (Pic: Kuki People Instagram) |
Imphal, March 15, 2026:
Several parts of Manipur were lashed by heavy rain, thunderstorms, and hail on 15 March, as a sudden weather system swept across the state bringing strong winds and intense showers. The storm developed rapidly during the afternoon hours, with dark clouds followed by heavy rainfall and hailstones striking multiple areas.
Residents in several localities reported that the hailstorm lasted for several minutes, with hailstones hitting rooftops, vehicles, and open fields. The strong winds and rainfall briefly disrupted normal activities as people rushed indoors for safety while the storm passed through the region.
The aftermath of the storm saw damage to houses and property, particularly structures with tin roofs which were dented by falling hailstones. Some vehicles parked in open areas also sustained minor damage as the hail struck during the intense downpour.
Farmers in several rural areas expressed concern over possible damage to standing crops and vegetable plantations, as the hail and strong winds hit agricultural fields. The storm raised fears of crop losses in certain areas where farming activities are currently underway.
In addition to property and agricultural damage, the storm also caused temporary disruptions to daily life, with heavy rain and gusty winds affecting visibility on roads and leading to brief power interruptions in some localities.
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| Tin Roof of a House Severely Damaged by the Hailstones |
Despite the damage, the rainfall brought temporary relief from the prevailing warm weather conditions across the state, although the accompanying hail and winds created challenges for residents and farmers.
Meanwhile, similar weather conditions were reported in parts of Meghalaya on the same day. Areas including Tura in West Garo Hills district experienced heavy rainfall and hail during a powerful thunderstorm that damaged houses, vehicles, and crops.
Following the incident, the government of Meghalaya reviewed the situation, with Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma directing officials to assess the damage and ensure assistance to affected households. District administrations were instructed to conduct field assessments and monitor the situation closely.
Weather officials noted that such pre-monsoon thunderstorms are common across the northeastern region during the months of March and April, often bringing lightning, heavy rain, gusty winds, and occasional hailstorms.
Authorities continue to monitor weather conditions as forecasts indicate the possibility of further thunderstorms and isolated hailstorms across parts of Northeast India in the coming days.
