Powerful Tornado Strikes Val-d'Oise, Causing Death and Widespread Damage

On the evening of October 20, 2025, a significant tornado hit the Val-d'Oise region in France, particularly devastating the city of Ermont and surrounding municipalities. The violent weather event, occurring around 5:50 PM, led to the collapse of three cranes at a construction site, resulting in the tragic death of a 23-year-old worker and life-threatening injuries to four others, with five more sustaining less severe injuries. Authorities responded to over 700 emergency calls, deploying 150 firefighters, medical personnel, and police officers to ensure safety and aid in affected areas including Ermont, Eaubonne, Andilly, Montmorency, and Franconville. Approximately 1,700 households were left without electricity as damage from torn-off roofs and blocked roads was assessed. Ermont has opened a gymnasium to shelter displaced residents lacking housing due to the storm.

The tornado's winds reached speeds estimated between 180 to 200 km/h, marking it as a high-intensity event. Meteorological experts from the Keraunos Observatory reported that weather conditions on October 20 were conducive to tornado formation, with a strong storm cell developing earlier in the day. Météo France explains that while tornadoes are relatively common in France, occurring dozens of times annually, they are typically brief and localized with varying sizes and durations. The last tornado to impact Val-d'Oise before this occurred on July 16, 2003.

An investigation has been launched in Pontoise concerning involuntary manslaughter and workplace injuries related to the incident, as confirmed by local officials and the prefecture of Val-d'Oise. Philippe Court, the prefect, described the tornado as a sudden and violent wind event affecting roughly ten municipalities, emphasizing the severity and localized nature of the disaster. Emergency services continue efforts to support residents and restore normalcy to the affected communities.