04 Jul 2022 | 11:06 AM UTC
France: Adverse weather forecast across southern, central, and eastern regions through at least early July 5
Thunderstorms are forecast across parts of southern, central, and eastern France through at least early July 5. Possible disruptions.
Event
Thunderstorms are forecast across parts of southern, central, and eastern France through at least early July 5. The storms are expected to pass through the southwest of the country before concentrating over the Massif Central in the afternoon July 4. They are then expected to lose some intensity as they move on to eastern Alpine regions late July 4. Thunderstorms may be accompanied by heavy rainfall, strong wind gusts, lightning, and possible hail storms. Downpours of 2-3 cm (0.8-1.1 inches) of rainfall are expected across parts of the affected region, as well as winds gusting up to 80-90 kph (50-56 mph).
As of July 4, Meteo France has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area:
Orange thunderstorm warnings: Ardeche, Haute-Loire, Loire, and Rhone departments in Auvergne-Rhone, Alpes Region.
Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Across the rest of the affected area.
Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
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 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 the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.
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 or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, 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. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
