Severe Flood Alerts Persist Across Western France with Expanding Orange and Red Warnings

Western France continues to experience severe flooding as three departments—the Gironde, Lot-et-Garonne, and Maine-et-Loire—remain on red alert for flood risks, prompting nearly 1,600 evacuations amid historic weather events. Eleven additional departments are on orange alert for floods, reflecting the widespread threat posed by persistent heavy rain and river overflows.

The Finistère department has now joined other regions under orange vigilance for heavy rain and flooding, particularly along the Odet and Laïta river basins. Authorities there anticipate rainfall up to 40 mm and wind gusts reaching 95 km/h, necessitating caution on roads such as the Pont de l'Iroise where speed limits have been reduced to 70 km/h. Yellow alerts cover surrounding basins including Aulne and Morlaix, alongside warnings for strong winds and submersion waves.

In Morbihan, orange vigilance for rain and floods is active from February 18 to 19, with rainfall forecasts between 30 and 50 mm, and local peaks of up to 60 mm. Along with yellow alerts for strong winds, thunderstorms, and submersion, the prefect has urged residents to secure their property, avoid flooded routes, and remain vigilant.

Further inland, the Allier department remains on yellow flood vigilance as rising water levels are forecast on segments of the Loire and Allier rivers, with peaks expected around February 18. Overflows at key stations such as Digoin and Saint-Yorre pose risks to local traffic, and authorities advise caution and avoidance of flooded roads.

Likewise, the Petit Morin area has been placed on yellow flood alert, with authorities recommending adherence to detours and avoiding inundated roads.

Overall, Minister of Ecological Transition Monique Barbut highlighted that this flooding episode marks an unprecedented 31 consecutive days of flooding. The Ministry plans to officially recognize the event as a natural disaster once the crisis subsides. Vigicrues is monitoring over 330 river sections, with 174 still under flood alert. Despite some rivers showing slow decrease, additional rainfall threatens to trigger renewed flooding.

Residents across affected departments are urged to follow official safety advice, avoid risks near rivers and coasts, and stay updated via Météo France and local government outlets as the situation remains critical and dynamic.