Deadly Storms Batter France: Paris Floods, Power Cut to 110,000 Homes

Two people have died and 17 others injured as violent thunderstorms swept across France, flooding streets in Paris, downing trees, and cutting power to over 110,000 homes.

The storms struck after a prolonged heatwave, triggering flash floods and powerful winds that wreaked havoc in several regions. A 12-year-old child was killed by a falling tree in southwestern France, while in the northwest, a man died after his quad bike collided with a tree that had toppled during the storm.

In Paris, heavy rain overwhelmed the city’s drainage systems. Notably, the downpour disrupted proceedings in the National Assembly when water began leaking from the chamber’s domed ceiling as Prime Minister François Bayrou delivered a speech on Middle East policy.

“Have you noticed that it was raining?” Bayrou quipped, looking up as water dripped into the chamber. The debate was briefly suspended while fire officers assessed the leak, and absorbent mats were later used to manage the situation.

Meanwhile, forecasters have warned of further storm activity in the UK, with thunderstorms and heavy rain expected on Thursday, particularly in southeastern England. The Met Office said warm, humid conditions would linger, with temperatures reaching up to 28°C by the weekend.

Meteorologist Honor Criswick noted that although parts of the country may experience a temporary cooler spell, unsettled weather with bursts of rain is likely to persist into the weekend, driven by nearby low-pressure systems.