Severe Rainfall Triggers Orange Flood Alerts Across Southern France

Southern France faces significant rainfall and flooding risks, with multiple departments under orange alert as of December 21, 2025. Among the most affected areas are the Gard and Ardèche departments, located in the Mediterranean region and Cévennes mountains.

In Ardèche, the prefecture issued an orange alert starting at 2 PM on December 21 due to expected rainfall totals between 100 to 130 mm, with local accumulations reaching 160 mm in the Cévennes. The rain, falling at a moderate intensity of 10 to 15 mm per hour, comes on top of already saturated soils caused by precipitation over the previous two days. This situation heightens the risk of small stream overflows and mudslides, particularly in the evening. Public safety advisories urge residents to avoid rivers and bridges, seek higher ground, avoid flooded areas and basements, and limit travel.

The Gard department is similarly affected, with orange alert conditions initiated at 2 PM on December 21. Forecasts predict rainfall between 100 to 150 mm, and locally up to 180 mm in the Cévenol massif, continuing until midnight. This prolonged downpour adds to recent heavy rains, exacerbating flood risks. The Gard Department Council has proactively closed 27 submersible bridges and crossings to prevent accidents. Several rivers, including the Ardèche, Cèze, Gardon, Vidourle, and Vistre, remain under yellow flood alert, and residents are advised to minimize movement and keep informed through official channels.

Beyond these departments, the broader Mediterranean region is experiencing a severe meteorological episode lasting through Tuesday, December 23. Total rainfall since Friday could reach 250 to 600 mm in the Cévennes mountains, equating to roughly three months' worth of rain, triggering rapid flooding concerns especially in the Languedoc plain and Provence Côte d'Azur areas, where 50 to 150 mm rain is expected. The southern Massif Central, eastern Pyrenees, and southern Alps also face blizzard conditions and heavy snow above 700 to 1000 meters. Coastal zones report strong winds up to 90 km/h, with waves between 4 to 5 meters threatening coastal flooding from Var to Hérault. Notably, the Hérault river has entered flood stage following recent heavy rains.

Authorities continue to emphasize vigilance and caution given the combination of saturated soils, ongoing heavy rain, and flood-prone terrain across southern France.