Gard and Hérault under red alert for exceptional flooding

The French departments of Gard and Hérault have been placed under a red alert for rain and flooding following an exceptional Mediterranean weather event. Météo-France warned of significant rainfall accumulations, exacerbated by sea temperatures in the Mediterranean that are currently 2 to 5 degrees Celsius above normal.

Authorities have implemented strict safety measures, including the closure of schools and public establishments. In Gard, Prefect Fabienne Decottignies advised residents to stay indoors, noting that several rescue operations had already been conducted for individuals who disregarded safety instructions. In Hérault, schools in eight critical sectors were closed, and all school transport was canceled.

Local impacts include flooded roads, rising rivers, and suspended train services. In Montpellier, public transport was moved to depots, and gymnasiums were opened to shelter vulnerable populations. In several coastal communes, such as Frontignan, campsites were evacuated as a precaution. The Vidourle river flooded streets in Quissac, and various roads around Saint-Hippolyte-du-Fort and Anduze became impassable due to torrents of water and debris.