France: Adverse weather forecast across southern regions through late Sept. 22

Severe weather is forecast across parts of southern France through at least Sept. 22. The national meteorology authority, Meteo France, has warned of thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and flooding expected in some southern departments; cumulative rainfall of about 80-120mm (3.14-4.72 inches) within 2-3 hours are possible. Heavy rainfall, strong wind gusts, lightning, and hail may accompany storms. Heavy downpours may trigger flooding in low-lying areas, and strong winds could cause property damage and power outages.

As of Sept. 22, Meteo France has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area:

• Orange thunderstorm and flooding warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Gard and Herault departments from late afternoon and evening, Sept. 22.

• Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Aude, Ardeche, Ariege, Aveyron, Bouches-du-Rhone, Cantal, Correze, Corse-du-Sud, Drome, Gers, Haute-Corse, Haute-Garonne, Haute-Loire, Hautes-Pyrenees, Isere, Loire, Lot, Lozere, Pyrenees-Orientales, Rhone, Tarn, Tarn-et-Garonne, and Vaucluse departments.

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.

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.