France, Italy: Adverse weather forecast across parts of southeastern France and northwestern and western Italy through at least Oct. 20

Event

Severe weather is forecast across parts of southeastern France and northwestern and western Italy through at least Oct. 20. An Atlantic weather disturbance will move over the region over the coming days, bringing heavy rainfall and thunderstorms to the affected region. Strong wind gusts, lightning, and possible hail may accompany storms. Rainfall accumulations of up to 25 cm (10 inches) are possible in parts of southeastern France. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes. Strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.

As of Oct. 18, Meteo France has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area:

• Orange rain-flood warnings: Ardeche Department in Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes Region and Gard and Herault departments in Occitanie Region

• Yellow rain-flood warnings: Drome Department in Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes Region and Aveyron and Lozere departments in Occitanie Region

• Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Ardeche and Drome departments in Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes Region, across Corsica, Gard, Herault, and Lozere departments in Occitnanie Region, and Alpes-Maritimes and Var departments in Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur Region

• Yellow strong wind warnings: Ain, Haute-Loire, Loire, and Rhone Departments in Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes Region

Officials have issued the following warnings for parts of Italy Oct. 18:

• Orange heavy rainfall and thunderstorm warnings: Liguria and Tuscany regions

• Yellow strong wind warnings: Liguria and Tuscany regions

Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

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 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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.

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.

The severe weather could contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Flooding downpours could inundate some low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Hazardous weather conditions might cause flight delays and cancellations at airports in affected areas. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations. Stay away from streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

MeteoAlarm
Meteo France
Servizio Meteorologico Aeronautica Militare