Freak Nepal storm kills 27, injures hundreds

KATHMANDU AFP April1, 2019-A freak storm tore down houses and overturned cars and trucks as it swept across southern Nepal killing at least 27 people and leaving more than 600 injured, officials said Monday.   

The rare spring storm battered the rural district of Bara and adjoining areas late Sunday. Five children were among the dead, the Home Ministry said, and a major operation was underway Monday to get relief supplies to the region and evacuate injured.   

The winds were so fierce that they overturned a bus carrying passengers, witnesses said. Houses, trees and electricity pylons were all toppled in the storm.   
Injured victims flocked to local hospitals which were unable to cope and at least seven people were airlifted to Kathmandu for treatment.   

 “I was at home getting ready for dinner when the storm hit -- it was unbelievable. We have nothing left.” Many of the victims were crushed to death under the debris of their houses or by fallen trees and poles. The strong winds overturned parked cars on the roads.