16 Aug 2022 | 07:56 AM UTC
France: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least Aug. 18
Thunderstorms forecast across much of France through at least Aug. 18. Flooding and disruptions possible.
Event
Following days of oppressive heat across much of the country, thunderstorms are forecast to break out across much of France through at least Aug. 18. The most severe storms are expected south of the Massif Central and the Aude River Aug. 16 and will remain over parts of Occitanie Region overnight Aug. 16-17. Further isolated storms are possible across the rest of the country Aug. 16 and over parts of the eastern half of France through Aug, 18. Thunderstorms may be accompanied by strong wind gusts, heavy downpours, lightning, and possible hail storms. Rainfall accumulations of 2-4 cm (0.8-1.6 inches) per hour and winds gusting up to 100 kph (62 mph) are possible during storms.
As of Aug. 16, Meteo France has issued the following thunderstorm warnings across France:
Orange thunderstorm warnings (the middle tier on a three-tier scale): Aude, Aveyron, Gard, Herault, and Tarn departments in Occitanie Region.
Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Across the rest of the country.
Yellow rain-flood warnings: Gard and Herault departments in Occitanie Region.
Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
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 in affected regions. 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.
