A severe hailstorm that hit the Swiss city of Winterthur caused damage, particularly in the Wülflingen district, with large hailstones reportedly breaking windows of homes and damaging vehicles and outdoor property.

The storm struck Winterthur in the canton of Zurich along with heavy thunderstorms. Residents reported that hailstones several centimeters in diameter fell in some areas, leaving piles of ice on balconies and outdoor spaces.

Images shared by local residents showed large hailstones covering balconies and streets, while some homes and vehicles were damaged by the intensity of the storm.

Hail breaks windows and damages vehicles

Footage from the Wülflingen district showed broken windows in some homes, as well as damage to parked vehicles and outdoor items.

The Swiss public broadcaster SRF’s weather service had warned on August 27 of the possibility of severe thunderstorms across the country, including heavy rain, strong winds and hail. Some areas were also at risk of large hailstones.

Weather forecasts for Winterthur had indicated a high probability of thunderstorms and heavy rainfall on August 28.

Damage assessment underway

No official damage figures have been released so far regarding the storm in Winterthur. However, images from the Wülflingen district indicate that the hailstorm caused material damage in several areas.

Local authorities are continuing to assess the extent of the damage.(ILKHA)