22 Jan 2020 | 10:34 AM UTC
France: Strom Gloria hits southern France January 22-23
Downed power lines leave 23,000 homes without electricity due to Storm Gloria in Pyrénées-Orientales department January 22-23; further disruptions expected
Event
Meteorological authorities issued orange warnings due to torrential rains in the Pyrénées-Orientales and Aude departments on Wednesday, January 22, due to the passage of the storm Gloria. Additional orange warnings for floods and landfalls are also in place in Pyrénées-Orientales department and will remain in effect until Thursday, January 23, at 06:00 (local time). At least 23,000 homes remain without electricity in the department, and several roads have been closed to traffic due to snow accumulation and other hazardous concerns brought on by the inclement weather.
Associated transportation disruptions, hazardous driving conditions, and power outages are possible over the coming hours.
Advice
Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions before setting out, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.
