Severe storms strike Southwest France, damaging church and causing floods

Severe thunderstorms and lightning struck southwestern France and parts of the Pyrenees on August 15, causing various forms of damage including flooding, hail, and structural destruction.

In Saint-Salvadou, located in the Aveyron department, lightning struck the Sainte-Marie-Madeleine Church. The strike ignited a fire that destroyed the upper portion of the neo-Gothic building, causing its spire to collapse. While the interior vaults appear largely intact, significant damage was reported to the beams and bells near the base of the steeple.

Broader weather patterns affected the region, with wind gusts reaching 80 to 90 km/h. In Andorra, heavy rainfall led to flooded streets in Pas de la Case. The Pyrenees region experienced hail and mudslides, particularly near the Tourmalet pass and the sectors of La Mongie and Barèges. Other areas, including Gard and Hérault, also reported significant hail.