Southern France faces severe storms and red weather alerts

Southern France is facing severe weather conditions as a Cévenol episode brings intense thunderstorms and torrential rainfall to the Languedoc plains and the Cévennes region. The Gard department has been placed under a red alert due to the risk of flash floods, runoff, and rising water levels. Rainfall totals are expected to reach between 400 and 500 mm within 48 hours, equivalent to two to three months of typical precipitation.

Significant rainfall has already been recorded, including 337.6 mm in Saint-Hippolyte-du-Fort and 299 mm in Colognac. The weather system is expected to affect both lowland and coastal areas, increasing the risk to local populations.

In the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, particularly in Bouches-du-Rhône, a marked deterioration in weather is also expected. This includes sustained easterly winds with gusts potentially reaching 60 km/h. While temperatures remain relatively mild for the season, residents are advised to exercise caution regarding travel and outdoor activities due to the combination of storms and wind.