BERLIN: A “tornado” struck the western German city of Paderborn on Friday, injuring more than 30 people, 10 of whom were critically injured, according to a police spokeswoman.

Following unusually high temperatures for the time of year, the tornado inflicted severe damage in the city of North Rhine-Westphalia, he said.

Many roofs were blown off and trees were uprooted in the area, according to security personnel.

Upturned autos were seen in photos published on social media.

Train service was affected as police advised people to stay indoors.

On Friday, German meteorological authorities issued a storm warning, predicting winds of up to 130 km/h (80 miles/h) in some areas.

The storm began in the west of the country and was expected to move east later that evening.