A hailstorm in Switzerland also injured many children

A powerful supercell storm struck Cremono today afternoon, causing widespread damage and injuries. The severe weather brought heavy rain, hailstones the size of walnuts, and gusts of wind strong enough to uproot trees and tear off roofs. The storm hit the town around 4 p.m., with skies darkening suddenly and winds intensifying rapidly, according to newsroom24.it. The rapid progression of the weather system led to immediate chaos, with reports of falling trees, damaged infrastructure, and emergency calls flooding in within minutes. The storm caused extensive damage throughout several Swiss cantons, particularly in the northern part of Zurich. Emergency services received over 450 calls within half an hour, prompting the deployment of nearly 100 rescuers and 280 firefighters. Approximately 40 people were injured, mostly children, with some requiring hospital treatment. The police confirmed that the majority of the victims were young, highlighting the vulnerability of this demographic during such extreme weather conditions. In one of the affected areas, a local rowing club suffered significant damage. Strong winds toppled centuries-old trees, scattering furniture, loungers, and garden items. Those present sought shelter in the bar, while a woman sustained head injuries, though the severity of her condition remains unknown. The storm also damaged the roof of the city’s central tower, further emphasizing the scale of destruction. The storm's impact extended beyond Cremono into parts of western and northwestern Switzerland. Railway services were disrupted along the Biel-Olten route, adding to the disruption caused by the severe weather. In Schaffhausen, the intensity of the storm was marked by hailstones measuring up to six centimeters in diameter, with wind speeds reaching 142 kilometers per hour. The Swiss Federal Meteorological Office recorded approximately 46,000 lightning strikes in a short period, underscoring the ferocity of the storm. Damage was widespread in Schaffhausen, where fallen trees partially blocked roads, and buildings and vehicles were damaged. Flooding occurred in multiple streets, basements, and underground garages due to heavy rainfall. In Erlinsbach, a woman was seriously injured after being hit by a falling tree. In the canton of Aargau, the storm reportedly tore down four massive concrete poles supporting high-voltage power lines, disrupting electricity supply in the area. The storm’s effects were felt across multiple regions, with reports of structural damage, property loss, and personal injury. Local authorities are working to assess the full extent of the damage and coordinate recovery efforts. Emergency services continue to respond to ongoing incidents, while residents are advised to remain cautious and avoid damaged areas until safety assessments are complete. The situation remains under active monitoring, with further updates expected as the aftermath of the storm unfolds.