‘I took refuge inside the bathtub’: Pomas residents in shock after tornado devastates village

The small village of Pomas in France's Aude region is reeling after a devastating tornado tore through the community on Monday evening. The storm, described as cyclone-like, ripped off roofs, shattered windows, and sent trees crashing down, leaving streets littered with debris.

Over 40 people were injured and hospitalized, though their conditions are not life-threatening. Residents are facing the immediate aftermath, with many unable to return to their homes. "We won't be able to sleep at home," said Mackel Nicolas, whose roof was damaged and veranda completely destroyed. "The veranda flew away entirely, like our gutters. The windows shattered... We could technically spend the night here, but we are too close to the castle, which is completely open and risks collapsing."

“

We won't be able to sleep at home. The firefighters forbid us. Our roof is damaged. The veranda flew away entirely, like our gutters. The windows shattered... We could technically spend the night here, but we are too close to the castle, which is completely open and risks collapsing.

Emergency services are on the scene, working to secure damaged roofs and structures. Meanwhile, inhabitants have begun the arduous task of clearing debris and salvaging what they can of their possessions. The tornado's path of destruction has left the village in a state of shock, with the full extent of the damage still being assessed.

“

I saw the tornado coming until a tile exploded the veranda. I got a small piece of glass.