Violent storms and powerful winds tore through large parts of northern India’s Uttar Pradesh state on Wednesday evening, leaving at least 111 people dead and dozens injured, officials said.

According to state authorities, the destruction stretched across nearly one-third of Uttar Pradesh, India’s most populous state with more than 240 million residents. Officials reported that at least 72 people suffered injuries, while more than 227 homes were either destroyed or severely damaged during the storm.

Authorities said most fatalities were caused by collapsing walls, uprooted trees, flying debris, and damaged structures as fierce winds lashed towns and villages. Emergency teams continued rescue efforts on Thursday, searching for people trapped under collapsed buildings and clearing roads blocked by fallen trees and debris.

State relief officials said wind speeds reached nearly 80 miles per hour in some areas, among the strongest ever recorded in Uttar Pradesh. The India Meteorological Department had issued its highest-level thunderstorm warning earlier in the week, cautioning residents about dangerous weather conditions and near-gale-force winds.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed condolences to the families of victims and assured immediate assistance for those affected. Rescue operations were focused on restoring electricity, drinking water supply, and transportation links disrupted by the storms.

The extreme weather comes as northern India experiences intense summer heat ahead of the annual monsoon season. Weather officials indicated that this year’s southwest monsoon may arrive earlier than usual, with initial movement expected over parts of the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea within days.