Storm over Hesse: Fallen trees damage cars

The consequences of the storm were especially visible on parked cars. Several vehicles were crushed or at least damaged by falling branches or entire trunks. No injuries had been reported as of the latest available information.

Residents also reported brief power outages in individual neighborhoods. Since the gusts were strongest in the first half of the night, many damages could only be discovered and reported in the morning.

Consequences for traffic and households

At Frankfurt Airport, there were individual delays in flight operations due to safety checks required on the apron, according to the reports. The rest of the local public transport largely returned to normal operation by late Friday morning following brief restrictions.

Meteorologically, this was a typical summer thunderstorm with a so-called thunderstorm front that moved in from the southwest. Such events bring heavy rainfall, strong wind gusts, and frequent lightning in a short period of time.

The German Weather Service had already pointed out the possibility of gale-force gusts and localized heavy rain in advance. Citizens were called upon to secure loose objects outdoors and to avoid staying outside.

Outlook for the weekend

Cleanup work also continued on Friday: Owners of damaged vehicles contacted repair shops and insurance companies, while municipal utilities and gardening offices helped to chop up and remove the fallen trees.

For the weekend, meteorologists announced changeable but calmer weather. As the reports state: "On Saturday there will be some sunny intervals and at times denser clouds. It will often remain dry, with isolated showers occurring in the afternoon and evening, with highs of 20 to 26 degrees."

On Sunday conditions will remain similar, with temperatures dropping slightly. Anyone planning to be out and about should keep an eye on the sky – new thunderstorms are less likely than during the previous night, according to the forecast.