Intense hailstorm batters Loire and Puy-de-Dôme, France
Powerful storms swept through central France on June 3, 2025, bringing large hail and heavy rain to the Loire and Puy-de-Dôme departments.
Hailstorm in Loire department, France on June 3, 2025. Credit: Horticulture du Forez
In the Loire department, a supercell thunderstorm produced hailstones up to 6 cm (2.2 inches) in diameter on June 3, with L’Hôpital-le-Grand, Saint-Étienne, Montbrison, Précieux, Cuzieu, and Saint-Galmier bearing the brunt of the storm.
The storm caused significant damage, particularly to horticultural facilities, homes, and vehicles.
In Puy-de-Dôme, storms affected Clermont-Ferrand, resulting in localized flooding. There was substantial water accumulation at the Gerzat toll booth.
This event followed what local media described as a “mini-tornado” and hailstorms in the Loire department on June 1.
On June 4, Météo France issued orange weather alerts for nine departments from Alsace to Perpignan due to storms and flash flooding. Forecasts include hail up to 5 cm (2 inches), winds reaching 100 km/h (62 mph), and up to 30 mm (1 inch) of rainfall within minutes, especially along the Rhône River near Lyon. Alerts remain in effect until 21:00 local time (LT).
Authorities advised residents to remain indoors, secure outdoor items, and avoid parking vehicles near trees. Drivers were warned not to travel on flooded roads, to reduce speed, and to seek indoor shelter during rainfall.
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