Luxembourg firefighters faced an unusual challenge on Sunday as high winds tore crosses from church towers in Bivange and Esch-Lallange, requiring complex rescue operations.
On Sunday afternoon, strong winds led to an unusual intervention by the Grand Ducal Fire and Rescue Corps (CGDIS).
The incident began around 4pm in Bivange, where residents noticed the cross atop the local church tower had come loose and was at risk of falling. Firefighters were promptly alerted and intervened to safely remove the cross, preventing any injuries. Crews from Roeser, Bettembourg, and Luxembourg City were deployed to assist.
Similar incident in Esch-Lallange
A nearly identical situation unfolded in Esch-Lallange, where high winds dislodged a 150kg cross from the church tower. Due to the tower's height and the cross' considerable weight, the operation was more complex than in Bivange, requiring additional support from the Lintgen fire brigade.
The intervention lasted until nearly 9pm but was successfully completed without injuries, according to Luca Codignoni, head of the Esch Fire and Rescue Centre. The cross was safely secured and brought to the ground.
