A powerful thunderstorm front passing through the border regions of France and Switzerland caused significant destruction and resulted in the loss of one life and dozens of injuries on July 24, Crisis 24 reported. The Jura massif was particularly affected, with La Chaux-de-Fonds in the canton of Neuchâtel experiencing the tragic death of one person due to a construction crane collapse, and several dozen victims seeking medical attention.
The thunderstorm brought hurricane-like gusts of wind, reaching speeds of up to 60 m/s, and large hail, causing widespread damage. Trees were uprooted, cars were damaged, and at least five buildings had to be evacuated due to the potential collapse of another construction crane. Public transport operations were halted, and authorities warned that restoration work might take several days.
The head of the municipality, Jean-Daniel Jeanneret, described it as a "black day in the history" of La Chaux-de-Fonds. Meteorologists are considering the possibilities that could have led to such destruction, with assumptions ranging from a tornado to a microsquall, a powerful short-term downward air movement during a thunderstorm.
In the neighbouring border region of O-Du in France, approximately a hundred houses were damaged, and one was partially destroyed during the passage of the thunderstorm front. The speed and intensity of the storm's impact were so swift that homeowners reported roofs being lifted and carried away by the wind, followed by the collapse of walls.
Comments (0)