7cm Hailstones Slam Southwestern France: Storm Unleashes Havoc

Severe Hailstorm Pummels Southwestern France A violent hailstorm swept across the southwest of France on May 19, 2025, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The storm, which hit particularly hard in the Haute-Garonne department of the Occitanie region, produced hailstones measuring up to 7 centimeters in diameter. Videos circulating online show the incredible size of the hail and the significant flooding it caused. "I've never seen anything like it," said Brahim Beldijoudi, a resident of Longages, whose video shows a deluge of hail covering his property. "The hail was so big and came down so hard, it looked like snow." The storm caused damage to homes, cars, and crops. Local authorities are assessing the extent of the damage and providing assistance to those affected. The sheer size of the hailstones is unusual for the region, and meteorologists are investigating the factors that contributed to the storm's intensity. Despite the damage, the community is showing resilience and working together to clean up the aftermath. The event serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather and the importance of preparedness.