Lucknow, Mar 10 (IANS): Heavy rains lashed the Uttar Pradesh capital here and neighbouring areas early Friday morning, according to the Regional Met Office.

The weather will continue to be muggy throughout the day, the Met official said. Rains began with a drizzle late Thursday night and by morning there were heavy showers.

Moradabad, Kanpur, Bareilly, Meerut, Barabanki and Faizabad also received rainfall.

Intermittent rains were likely in most parts of the state, including the eastern and western regions. Chilly winds were blowing here, ringing back some winter effect.

Director at the Regional Met Office, J.P. Gupta attributed the change in weather to a depression near Afghanistan. This weather will continue till Saturday.

The rains, however, have left the farmers worried. Gusty winds blowing in some region were likely to damage crops, including the mango harvest which is in the flowering stage.

A dust-storm in Baghpat district led to power cut in more than 100 villages.