In a tragic incident during a sudden Nor’wester storm, an elderly man lost his life after a coconut tree fell on him in Alisa village under Pipili block of Puri district on Friday night.
Sudden storm turns fatal
The deceased has been identified as Jagannath Behera, a resident of Alisa village under Pipili Police Station limits. According to reports, he had gone to the village temple to attend a religious gathering.
During the prasad sevan (distribution of offerings), strong winds from the Nor’wester—locally known as Kalbaisakhi—swept through the area, uprooting a nearby coconut tree which fell directly on him.
Rescue efforts in vain
Villagers immediately alerted emergency services, following which fire personnel and an ambulance reached the spot and began rescue operations. Despite swift action, Behera had succumbed to his injuries before he could be pulled out.
The sudden nature of the storm left little time for people to seek safety, highlighting the unpredictable intensity of such weather events.
Village mourns loss
The tragic incident cast a pall over the religious gathering, with villagers and devotees left in shock and grief. What began as a spiritual event quickly turned into a moment of collective mourning for the community.
Seasonal storms raise safety concerns
Nor’wester storms are common in eastern India during the pre-monsoon months and are known for their sudden onset and strong winds. Authorities often advise residents to remain cautious during such weather conditions, especially in open or vulnerable areas.
The incident serves as a reminder of the risks posed by extreme weather and the need for heightened awareness during storm-prone periods.