Orange Weather Alerts Issued for Heavy Rain and Flood Risks in Southeastern France on November 16, 2025

On Sunday, November 16, 2025, the departments of Alpes-Maritimes, Drôme, Ardèche, and Isère in southeastern France are under an official orange alert issued by Météo France for heavy rainfall and flooding risks. The alert, effective from 6 AM to 6 PM, warns of intense thunderstorms bringing significant rain accumulation across these regions.

Météo France forecasts rainfall amounts of 50 to 70 millimeters over six to nine hours in Drôme, Ardèche, and Isère. Meanwhile, Alpes-Maritimes faces a more severe threat, with expected rainfall between 80 to 120 millimeters and possible peaks reaching 150 millimeters, especially along the coast and foothills. In response, Nice's mayor Christian Estrosi has activated a vigilance cell and ordered the closure of public spaces including parks, gardens, beaches, cemeteries, and coastal paths. Residents have been urged to limit travel to ensure safety.

The Var department remains under yellow alert with potential for an upgrade, as authorities continue to monitor conditions in the eastern area. Météo France emphasizes the need for vigilance due to uncertainties surrounding localized heavy rainfall.

This new round of severe weather follows a previous orange alert issued on Saturday for Loire, Rhône, and Ardèche, which was lifted without major damage reported. The ongoing situation highlights the importance of public readiness and the efforts by local authorities to minimize risk during this intense weather episode.