24 Jun 2022 | 11:11 AM UTC
France: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least June 27 /update 1
Severe weather forecast across much of France through at least June 27. Disruptions to transport, business, and utilities possible.
Event
Thunderstorms are forecast across much of France through at least June 27. The storms may be accompanied by heavy rainfall, strong wind gusts, lightning, and possible hail storms. The strongest thunderstorm activity is expected in central and eastern regions June 24 and across southern, central, eastern, and northeastern regions June 25-26.
As of June 24, Meteo France has issued the following weather warnings across the country:
Orange thunderstorm warnings: Ardeche, Drome, Haute-Savoie, Isere, and Savoie departments in Auvergne-Rhone, Alpes region.
Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Across much of the rest of France not under orange warnings, with the exception of some southern and northwestern regions.
Yellow rain-flood warnings: Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and Hautes-Alpes departments in Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur region.
Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
Heavy downpours associated with passing storms are causing disruptions in some areas as of June 24. In Auxerre in Yonne Department flooding triggered by torrential rainfall June 23 submerged streets in the city and entered basements and lower floors of several homes. Flooding has also been reported in eastern parts of Lyon early June 24, affecting several neighborhoods and causing disruptions on the A46 highway. Other affected areas include Parts of Aude, Bas-Rhin, Haute-Garonne, and Lot-et-Garonne departments.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
