Tornado rips through southern France, injuring more than 40
A powerful tornado has struck several villages in southern France, injuring at least 40 people and causing significant damage to homes and infrastructure. The storm tore through the region on Monday afternoon, leaving a trail of destruction that has disrupted daily life for thousands of residents.
The tornado was first spotted near the village of Verzeille, where eyewitnesses captured footage of the funnel cloud forming beneath a thunderstorm. It then moved across the Aude department, affecting towns and villages including Pomas, where winds exceeded 100 km/h (62 mph). In Pomas, the violent winds ripped roofs off homes, shattered windows, and downed trees and power lines.
Local authorities confirmed on Monday evening that about 2,800 households were still without electricity. Several roads were blocked due to fallen debris, and emergency services were working to clear the affected areas and restore power. The injured were treated at local hospitals, with injuries reported as minor to moderate, according to officials.
The tornado struck as part of a broader weather system that brought thunderstorms and heavy winds to the region. Meteorologists noted that tornadoes of this intensity are rare in southern France, but not unprecedented. The last significant tornado in the area occurred in 2018, causing similar damage.
French authorities have urged residents to remain cautious as cleanup efforts continue. The government has deployed additional emergency personnel to assist with rescue and recovery operations. Residents in the affected villages have been advised to avoid damaged structures and to follow official guidance.
The full extent of the damage is still being assessed. Officials have said that a thorough survey will be conducted to determine the scale of the destruction and to support those whose homes have been affected. Insurance companies have also been mobilised to process claims from residents.
This incident serves as a reminder of the sudden and destructive power of severe weather events. While tornadoes are more commonly associated with other parts of the world, this event highlights the importance of preparedness in regions that may not frequently experience such phenomena.
Local communities have already begun the process of recovery, with neighbours helping one another to clear debris and secure damaged properties. The French weather service continues to monitor the situation as more storms are expected in the following days.
