A powerful hailstorm struck Paris on Saturday, May 3, causing flash flooding that brought parts of the city to a standstill. Videos shared by residents on social media platform X showed water rushing down streets and thick layers of hail piling up on sidewalks and roads. The storm’s suddenness caught many off guard.
Meanwhile, earlier in the day, authorities had issued a yellow alert for thunderstorms across much of France, warning residents to be cautious. In Paris, the effects were immediate and widespread.
Local media reported that several metro stations were forced to shut down due to water damage, leaving commuters stranded. Meanwhile, operations at Charles de Gaulle Airport were temporarily suspended, affecting multiple flights.