France: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least June 20

Severe weather is forecast across much of mainland France through at least June 20. A band of showers and storms over north-central France early June 18 is expected to move eastward out of the country during the day before another more organized wave of storms approaches western France late June 18. This system will bring heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across much of the mainland through June 20, except far northern and southeastern regions. The most intense storms are likely in western regions. Strong wind gusts, lightning, and possible hail may accompany storms.

Meteo France has issued the following weather warnings across the country June 18:

• Orange thunderstorm warnings (middle tier on a three-tier scale): Dordogne, Gironde, Landes, and Lot-et-Garonne departments in Nouvelle-Aquitaine Region.

• Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Across much of the rest of central, northern, northeastern, southwestern, and western mainland France.

• Yellow rain/flood warnings: Cher and Indre departments in Centre-Val de Loire Region, across Hauts-de-France Region, Eure and Seine-Maritime departments in Normandy Region, and Dordogne, Gironde, Landes, and Lot-et-Garonne departments in Nouvelle-Aquitaine Region.

Further yellow thunderstorm warnings are in place across central, eastern, and western France, and yellow rain-flood warnings are in place for pockets of central and northwestern France June 18. Officials could update and extend the coverage of weather alerts 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 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 rain has saturated the soil.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Where significant flooding, landslides, or strong winds impact utility networks, disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible.

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.