A powerful dust storm has killed around 98 people and injured at least 143 more in north India.

The storms uprooted trees and electricity poles, and brought down walls and houses in Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday night.

Some were also killed by lightning.

Image: A man is carried from the debris of his damaged home following a major dust storm in Etmadpur, in Agra district

Image: A tree felled by high wind during a storm onto a vehicle in Bareilly in India's northern Uttar Pradesh

Officials said the death toll may rise. About 150 animals have also been killed.

Rajasthan's chief minister, Vasundhara Raje, tweeted: "Have directed ministers and concerned officials to affected areas to begin relief work immediately and restore utilities.


"An unfortunate incident, we have been working closely with local authorities to mitigate the situation.

"The Govt stands firmly with its people in this time."

Image: A wall damaged by high winds during a major dust storm in Agra district in northern India's Uttar Pradesh state

The Alwar power distribution company said it would take them at least two days to restore electricity to the area.

The Agra district of Uttar Pradesh, home to the Taj Mahal, was one of the worst hit, but the famous monument has escaped damage.

Timelapse shows dust storm in India

Shivam Lohia, who owns a resort hotel in Alwar district of Rajasthan, abandoned his car and ran for his life when it was nearly blown away.

He said: "I haven't seen such a devastating storm in at least 25 years. Everyone was scared and running for cover as trees and homes were getting blown away. It was a nightmare."

TP Gupta, of the Uttar Pradesh relief commissioner's office, said: "We can confirm at least 65 deaths from around 40 of the state's 75 districts"

According to officials, most deaths have happened in homes, after they collapsed.

Image: A fallen electricity line in Agra

Image: The injured are treated in Bharatpur. Pic: NDTV

Rajasthan's disaster and relief department chief said 33 people had died.

Relief commissioner Sanjay Kumar said 36 people died in Agra, when wind speed hit 130km (80m) per hour.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said: "Saddened by the loss of lives due to dust storms in various parts of India. Condolences to the bereaved families. May the injured recover soon.

Image: The scene in New Delhi

Image: Some areas have been warned they will be without electricity for days

"Have asked officials to coordinate with the respective state governments and work towards assisting those who have been affected."