A powerful tornado swept through parts of southern France, injuring more than 40 people and destroying homes in several villages, local authorities said.
Officials reported that residential buildings were heavily damaged or demolished as the storm passed, with the full extent of structural losses still being assessed. No further confirmed casualty figures have been released.
Local emergency services have been involved in the immediate aftermath, attending to the injured and evaluating damage, while hospitals and medical teams work to treat those affected. Authorities warned that information was evolving and that figures could change as assessments continue.
Meteorological and civil protection agencies are expected to examine the event and its impacts in the coming days to determine causes and to inform possible recovery measures. More detailed reports from local officials and emergency responders were awaited as communities begin to account for the damage and needs created by the storm.