France: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least June 30

Thunderstorms are forecast across much of mainland France through at least June 30. Storms are expected to move into southwestern regions overnight June 28-29 before spreading northeastward across much of the country through June 29. The most intense storms are likely in eastern regions, with rainfall totals of 5-8 cm (2-3 inches) and winds gusting up to 100 kph (62 mph) possible. Heavy rainfall, strong wind gusts, lightning, and possible hail may accompany storms. Heavy downpours may trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes.

Meteo France has issued the following yellow thunderstorm warnings weather warnings across parts of eastern and central France June 28 and the following warnings June 29:

• Orange thunderstorm warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Across Bourgogne-Franche-Comte and Grand Est regions and Cher Department in Centre-Val de Loire and Charente, Charente-Maritime, Deux-Sevres, Gironde, Landes, and Vienne departments in Nouvelle-Aquitaine Region.

• Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Across most of the rest of mainland France, with the exception of far northern and southeastern regions.

• Yellow rain/flood warnings: Cher, Indre, Loir-et-Cher, and Loiret departments in Centre-Val de Loire Region, Seine-et-Marne Department in Ile-de-France Region, Charente, Charente-Maritime, and Gironde departments in Nouvelle-Aquitaine Region, and Aude, Gard, Herault, Lozere, and Pyrenees-Orientales departments in Occitanie Region.

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.