Tornado in southern France injures 40, damages 300 homes
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A tornado struck the Aude department in southern France, injuring more than 40 people and leaving two missing. Winds up to 117 km/h damaged about 300 homes and cut power to nearly 3,000 households. Authorities deployed over 120 emergency workers and set up an operational headquarters.
Key Facts
- More than 40 people were injured and two were reported missing after the tornado hit the Aude department.
- Winds reached 117 km/h and damaged about 300 homes, according to local authorities.
- Nearly 3,000 households in 10 localities lost electricity.
- At least 26 people were injured in the commune of Pomas, with five hospitalized, according to Euronews.
- The third stage of the Vuelta a España cycling race was cancelled due to heavy hail.
Storm Impact
The tornado struck the Aude department on Monday around 17:20, hitting the commune of Pomas and several nearby settlements between Carcassonne and Limoux. In Pomas, about 100 homes were damaged, many losing their roofs, and some buildings were completely destroyed. Wind speeds reached 32.5 meters per second, and more than 30 millimeters of rain fell within one hour. Fallen trees blocked roads and disrupted vehicle movement in the affected area.
Emergency Response
More than 120 emergency workers were deployed to the affected areas, and an operational headquarters was formed to coordinate the response and assess damage. Over 115 firefighters, including 14 specialists in urban search and rescue and dog handlers, were mobilized to deal with the aftermath. Two temporary accommodation centers were opened in Pomas and Limoux for residents unable to return to their homes. The gendarmerie organized patrols in the damaged areas to guard the affected houses.
Warnings and Disruptions
The French national meteorological service issued an orange weather alert for 20 departments in the south, including Aude, warning of thunderstorms and heavy rain. Authorities declared an orange danger level due to thunderstorms, and the third stage of the Vuelta a España cycling race was cancelled because of heavy hail. Flight delays and cancellations were reported in several cities across the country.
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Tornado in southern France injures 40, damages 300 homes
