Riesenbaum falls in front of a apartment block in Cologne: Happy end without injuries!

Riesenbaum falls in front of a apartment block in Cologne: Happy end without injuries!

On Pentecost Sunday, June 8, 2025, a violent storm swept over Cologne and caused a dramatic incident in Kalk-Mülheimer-Straße. A large tree overturned there after there had been strong winds between 70 and 85 km/h for hours. The danger was announced in advance by an official warning from the German Weather Service (DWD), which was valid for the day of the event. On the overview map of the Storm Center there was already a warning for gusts of wind, which the citizens called for increased caution.

The fallen tree did not result in any injuries, but the damage to the adjacent apartment block is not insignificant. The panes of the staircase, a gutter and several roof tiles are affected. In the past, residents had been surprised that the tree, which was classified as endangered in 2023, was not trimmed or removed. Now many regret that the property management did not become active to prevent misfortune.

severe weather warnings and precautions

The warning of the DWD had asked the citizens to be particularly careful and avoid forest areas, parks and cemeteries. The storm, triggered by the deep "poly", not only brought considerable risks in Cologne, but also devastated in other parts of Germany. In exposed locations, speeds of up to 95 km/h were even measured, which increased the increase in danger.

After the tree had overturned, the fire brigade moved to examine the damage. She cut up the tree, but left it for the time being. This now means that the house entrance is blocked. The residents have to get through the underground car park or over the tree and fence to their apartments. An unpleasant situation that the property management must soon clarify, because it is currently not easy to come home.