France: Adverse weather forecast across southwestern regions April 27

Severe weather is forecast across parts of southwestern France April 27. A low-pressure system will generate thunderstorms with accompanying high winds of 80-100 km/h (50-62 mph) and heavy rain during the afternoon and evening. Meteo France has issued the following weather warning:

• Orange thunderstorm warnings (second highest on a four-tier scale): Landes, Gironde, Charente, Dordogne, Lot-et-Garonne, Gers, Tarn-et-Garonne, and Lot departments

Officials could update, rescind, and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts as weather conditions change over the coming hours.

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 or a lack of 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 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, landslides, or strong winds impact utility networks.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges 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 across the affected region. If strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities and some employees' inability to reach work sites.