Severe Thunderstorms Across Europe
Hailstones the size of golf balls have been reported in French villages as thunderstorms struck parts of Europe amid an exceptional heatwave. While thunderstorms are typical during intense heat, the storms across countries such as France, Germany and Poland have been particularly severe, bringing flooding, strong winds and heavy showers with large hailstones.
Hail Damage in France
On Wednesday, people in southeastern France reported hailstones with diameters ranging between 5cm and 7cm around the towns of Aubenas, Vals-les-Bains and Lalevade-d’Ardèche. Streets were covered with a visible layer of hail, which damaged vehicle windscreens, several buildings, and vineyards.
Localised Flooding in Poland and France
Torrential rainfall and strong winds have led to localised flooding in France and Poland. In Wrocław, southwest Poland, roads and tram tracks were closed due to flooding, and strong winds blew trees onto tram cables. Residents have been advised to remain indoors and prepare for power outages. Storms were expected to bring 30-50mm of rain to France, with potentially more in some local areas.
Deadly Monsoon in Bangladesh
In Asia, heavy rainfall and flooding from the monsoon in Bangladesh have killed at least 53 people. The capital, Dhaka, and surrounding areas have experienced rain for over a week, with severe warnings for flooding and landslides. A landslide covered a school in mud and debris, killing several schoolgirls and their teacher last week.
Cox's Bazar Evacuated
One of the worst-affected areas is the Cox's Bazar refugee settlement, from which residents were evacuated. The Chattogram district recorded 412.3mm of rain in 24 hours, the highest single-day July rainfall in the past 42 years. About a million people have been affected, and thousands are living in government shelters. The knee-deep flooding caused travel disruption, power outages, and slower emergency service response times. Bangladesh is prone to monsoon flooding due to its low-lying terrain and multiple rivers. Further intense downpours and prolonged rainfall are forecast, bringing additional risks of flash flooding and landslides.
