Severe thunderstorms in France cause widespread electrical surges and property damage

Heavy thunderstorms across several French regions have led to significant electrical damage and property loss. When Météo‑France issues storm warnings, lightning can generate voltage spikes that travel through power lines, telephone cables and antenna connections, damaging connected electronics. The Association Protection Foudre estimates tens of thousands of such incidents each year, with common advice to unplug devices, disconnect external cables and use surge protectors to avoid costly repairs.

The recent storms, marked by intense hail, strong winds and heavy rain, affected Haute‑Loire, Isère, Tarn, Bouches‑du‑Rhône and Marseille. Lightning struck buildings, igniting fires, while hailstones up to 5 cm in diameter damaged roofs, vehicles and other structures. Residents reported the sudden onset of violent hail and intense precipitation, prompting orange‑level storm alerts in the affected departments.