France: Adverse weather forecast to continue across much of the country through at least June 21 /update 1

Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast to continue across much of mainland France through at least June 21. Showers and storms in recent days have led to river levels rising in some areas and the adverse weather is expected to continue over the coming hours. Strong wind gusts, lightning, and possible hail may accompany storms.

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

• Red flood warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): The Oudon River in Maine-et-Loire and Mayenne departments in Pays de la Loire Region.

• Orange thunderstorm warnings: Ile-et-Vilaine Department in Brittany Region, Eure-et-Loire, Indre-et-Loire, Loir-et-Cher, and Loiret departments in Centre-Val de Loire Region, and Loire-Atlantique, Maine-et-Loire, Mayenne, and Sarthe departments in Pays de la Loire Region.

• Orange rain-flood warnings: Ile-et-Vilaine Department in Brittany Region, Eure-et-Loire, Indre-et-Loire, Loir-et-Cher, and Loiret departments in Centre-Val de Loire Region, Loire-Atlantique, Maine-et-Loire, Mayenne, and Sarthe departments in Pays de la Loire Region, and Hautes-Alpes Department in Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur Region.

• Orange and yellow flood warnings: Across several river basins in central, southeastern, and western France.

• Yellow rain/flood and thunderstorm warnings: Across much of mainland France.

Further red flood warnings and orange and yellow flood and weather warnings are in place across parts of mainland France June 21. 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.