Overview
- Following Sunday's violent thunderstorms, a lightning strike burned a house in Labéjan while hail and wind tore through fields and vineyards across the Gers.
- Fire crews returned Monday to put out lingering hot spots at the struck home, where only the walls remain and the owners were away when the blaze started.
- The Gers chamber of agriculture says 50 to 100 farms were hit and has activated an emergency support plan while seeking rapid funding.
- Farmers report steep losses that range from about €10,000 for a 1.5-hectare vineyard to more than €100,000 for a battered estate, with one barn roof collapsing under hail weight as calves fled.
- Damage counts continue as officials log formal claims, and outcomes will hinge on insurance coverage and how fast public emergency funds are released.