Sudden evening showers bring relief to residents, disrupt power in Tiruchi

Sudden hailstorm and thunderstorm in Tiruchi cause transport disruptions, power outages, and widespread damage, bringing relief from heat.

A sudden hailstorm accompanied by heavy thunder and rain lashed Tiruchi on Sunday evening, bringing much-needed relief from the day’s heat but also causing significant disruption to transport and public infrastructure.

The day began with soaring temperatures and humid conditions, but by late evening, the skies darkened and gave way to thunderstorms that brought down the temperature significantly across the city. The rain was accompanied by strong winds that swept through several neighbourhoods.

The Bengaluru–Madurai Express came to a halt at Tiruchi Fort railway station after overhead electrical equipment (OHE) was damaged by the storm. Railway officials immediately deployed a relief locomotive to tow the train to Tiruchi Junction, from where it resumed its journey to Madurai. Officials said the damaged OHE would be inspected and repaired promptly.

The hailstorm and intense rain also caused widespread damage across the city. Several low-lying areas experienced severe waterlogging, causing hardship to commuters. Roads near the airport, including the newly laid Wireless Road, were reported to be inundated, hampering traffic flow and leaving vehicles stranded.

The downpour led to multiple incidents of trees and branches falling due to strong winds. Three trees were uprooted near Oyamari, while several large branches fell in Thillainagar area. In Dheeran Nagar, two trees were reported to have fallen, prompting intervention from the Fire and Rescue Services Department. Tiruchi Corporation workers have been deployed across affected areas to clear debris and restore access.

While the showers brought relief from the heat, they also caused power outages in several areas. Residents reported electricity disruptions in localities, including Srirangam, Thillai Nagar, and Cantonment, Crawford, Karumandapam, with outages lasting several hours in some places.