Severe Flood and Weather Alerts Hit Southern France, Hérault on Red Alert for Flooding

Météo France has issued a severe weather warning placing the Hérault department under a red alert due to exceptional flooding caused by intense thunderstorms and heavy rainfall. This follows heavy rains over the weekend that led to already high river levels, including the Hérault, Mosson, and Lez rivers. The prefecture of Hérault reports that more than 40 departmental roads, including major routes around Montpellier and an exit on the A709 highway, are flooded and impassable.

Five other southeastern departments—Aveyron, Haute-Corse, Lozère, Tarn, and Var—are under orange alerts for flooding, snow, and ice. The situation remains critical as additional heavy rain is expected later, with officials urging the public to avoid all travel to ensure safety.

Thibault Félix, director of the prefecture cabinet, highlighted that the flood peak is still ahead, emphasizing the challenging conditions faced by residents and responders. The government continues to monitor the situation closely to mitigate the impacts of this severe weather event in southern France as winter storms persist.