Many historical buildings were damaged in France following a storm that swept the country during the morning of December 26th 1999. The French Culture Ministry announced that damages amounted to some US $ 100 million after many cathedral, castles, palaces and official buildings were hit by gusty winds of up to 110 mph.
Some 6000 trees were torn in the Park of the Versailles palace which also suffered many damages. Many parts of its roof and scores of windows were blown away and officials fear water leaks in many rooms.
Part of the glass roof of the Orsay museum was also damaged and many trees were torn in the French capital. In addition many stained glass panels were destroyed in several churches in Paris and many parts of Northern and Eastern France.