Severe storm sweeps across Lake Constance region: roofs torn off, basements flooded

In addition to Bohlingen, the rest of the Lake Constance region was also affected. In several municipalities in the district of Konstanz and in neighboring counties such as Reutlingen and Ludwigsburg, fallen trees blocked roads and rail tracks. Fire brigades were dispatched to numerous operations to clear transportation routes and pump out flooded basements.

Impact in other districts

In Switzerland, which directly borders Lake Constance, weather-related operations also occurred according to local authorities. The cross-border rescue services were in contact with the German command centers to coordinate on the situation.

The Überlingen animal shelter was also affected by the aftermath of the storm. Staff cared for frightened and partially injured animals that had panicked during the storm. Helpers set up additional accommodation for found animals.

The district of Reutlingen reported toppled trees and flooded streets, particularly from Bad Urach. In the district of Ludwigsburg, the fire department and the Technical Relief Service also had to respond to several operations, including freeing vehicles from flooded underpasses.

Cleanup operations and warnings

The weather services had announced the storm in advance. Despite the warnings, the violent gust front took many residents by surprise. Meteorologists spoke of a so-called thunderstorm line that moved rapidly eastward, bringing heavy gale-force gusts, hail, and torrential rainfall.

Cleanup operations are expected to take several days according to authorities. Insurance companies anticipate a high number of damage claims. The municipal administration set up contact points for affected citizens, providing information on emergency shelters and assistance services.

In Baden-Württemberg, the storm is part of a series of severe weather events in recent weeks. Experts point to the connection between increasing weather intensity and climate change, which, according to current findings, makes such extreme events more likely.