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Rare ‘Superbolt’ Rattles Toulouse as Mediterranean Storms Flood Occitanie

Meteorologists rank the strike among the year’s most powerful, with peak current estimates ranging from 158 to 185 kA.

Overview

  • A direct cloud‑to‑ground hit near Balma’s aerodrome around 11:21 local time produced an explosive report that shook buildings and was heard across Toulouse.
  • Keraunos measured about 158 kA and placed the event in the top 0.3% of 2025 lightning in France, while a MétéoFrance forecaster cited roughly 185 kA and the 0.2–0.3% range.
  • Regional reporting said the strike briefly disrupted operations at a nearby aerodrome.
  • The same system unleashed flooding rains from Hérault to Pyrénées‑Orientales, submerging streets in Béziers and Perpignan and prompting rescues including a 93‑year‑old woman and a family with children.
  • Officials flagged ongoing risk with yellow thunderstorm vigilance for seven Mediterranean departments as storms fired roughly 4,500 lightning flashes per hour.