Severe Hailstorm Blankets Reutlingen, Germany in Ice
Reutlingen, a city in southwestern Germany, was struck by a devastating hailstorm that left parts of the city covered in a thick layer of ice. Hailstones, some as large as golf balls, pelted the city, creating chaos and wreaking havoc.
The storm hit with such intensity that the city’s infrastructure was seriously affected. To address the aftermath, approximately 250 workers were mobilized to clear the ice that had accumulated up to 30 centimeters (12 inches) deep. It was a laborious task that took several hours, with snowplows being employed to remove the large deposits of ice coating the streets.
The hailstorm not only led to ice-covered roads but also caused numerous emergencies. The local fire brigade received an overwhelming number of more than 120 distress calls. The sudden storm left many people trapped in their cars or unable to open their doors due to the ice accumulation.
Moreover, the city’s drainage system struggled to cope with the hail and leaves carried by the storm. This resulted in some flooding in underground car parks, basements, and residential buildings. The combination of ice and leaves blocked the drainpipes, exacerbating the damage caused by the hailstorm.
The Echaz River, which flows through Reutlingen, experienced a sudden and significant rise of 1.5 meters (5 feet) in just a few minutes. Despite the alarming surge, fortunately, no major damage or casualties were reported in connection with the river.
Reutlingen is located in the state of Baden-Württemberg, nestled between Stuttgart and the Swiss border. The city is known for its picturesque setting but was unsuspectingly transformed into a winter wonderland due to this unprecedented hailstorm.
As the city recovers from the hailstorm’s aftermath, authorities are assessing the damages and assisting those affected. The local community is joining forces to support one another during this challenging time and help restore the city to its regular functioning.
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