1500 km long: Impressive squall line storms Europe

An unseasonably strong squall line stretched across several European countries as it marched eastwards on Monday.

On Monday 13th March, a squall line, which originated in France after temperatures soared over 26C, spanned a length of 1500 km into Germany, Switzerland and Italy through the evening.

The squall line, consisting of a cluster of very active, potent thunderstorms, produced over 180,000 lightning strikes across these countries.

Strong to severe thunderstorms developed with reports of gusts up to 65 mph producing damage, alongside large hail reported up to 3 cm in diameter.

Strong supercells were also reported in southern Germany and eastern France, with a visible hook echo and strong rotation on the radar; key signs of tornado formation.

In coincidence, an unconfirmed tornado was also reported on the very same day in Great Hucklow, in the Derbyshire Peak District.

The localised, but severe damage is classic to a tornado. Several trees were torn down, greenhouses were smashed and sheds were even lifted into neighbours' gardens.