Tornado Strikes Southwestern France, Injures 39, Leaves Trail Of Destruction

A powerful tornado has swept through the village of Pomas in southwestern France, injuring 39 people and damaging about 300 homes.

The storm struck the Aude region near Carcassonne on Monday, August 24, with winds estimated at 117 kilometres per hour, tearing off roofs, scattering debris and causing extensive damage across the community.

Fifteen people were taken to hospital for treatment, while two of those injured were reported to be in critical condition.

More than 120 emergency workers were deployed to the area as residents began assessing the damage and securing affected properties.

The tornado also disrupted electricity supplies, leaving thousands of homes without power across parts of the region.

Meanwhile, severe hail forced riders in the Vuelta a España cycling race to seek shelter, prompting organisers to cancel Monday’s third stage.

Authorities said on Tuesday that no one had been reported missing, as emergency crews continued rescue and recovery operations and assessed the full extent of the destruction.