Severe storms cause widespread damage across Slovakia

Severe storms and intense downbursts have caused significant damage across parts of Slovakia, prompting emergency responses in multiple regions.

In the Rimavská Sobota district, an extraordinary situation was declared in 15 municipalities, including the town of Tornalja, following a violent windstorm. The storm damaged dozens of building roofs and caused widespread power outages. Emergency services, including professional and volunteer firefighters, are working to restore drinking water, provide temporary shelter for damaged buildings, and clear fallen trees. The Ministry of Interior is coordinating relief efforts for the affected communities.

In the Gömör region, a powerful downburst—described as a phenomenon similar to a tornado—struck several settlements. In Radnovce, the storm was severe enough to tear the tower off a church. Other reported damages include destroyed roof structures on residential and public buildings and the collapse of a high-voltage power pole.

In Bratislava's Petržalka district, cleanup efforts are ongoing following heavy storms that caused flooding, fallen trees, and damage to vehicles. Significant property damage was reported at several schools, including flooding in classrooms and leaks in school swimming pools. Additionally, hail and strong winds destroyed photovoltaic panels at a local swimming pool facility.