Severe Weather Alert in Guadeloupe Triggers Major Rescue Operation

On the evening of April 15, 2026, Météo-France issued an orange vigilance alert for rain and storms across Guadeloupe, anticipating severe weather conditions overnight into April 16. A humid and unstable air mass moving from the southeast was expected to unleash significant thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, with rainfall accumulations predicted to reach between 60 mm and 90 mm within three hours. This intense precipitation raised risks of temporary flooding, river overflow, and landslides across the island.

The meteorological service also warned against the dangers of significant electrical activity during storms, advising residents to avoid using electrical devices and to take shelter away from trees and pylons. Conditions were forecast to improve by Thursday morning.

Earlier on April 15, around 60 people, including children and a pregnant woman, required rescue after being stranded on hiking trails near Desbordes in Petit-Bourg due to a sudden rise in river water levels triggered by heavy rain. Firefighters responded swiftly after an alert at around 2 PM, successfully securing one group of 15 promptly. However, the full rescue operation took two hours, employing specialized emergency units to ensure the safe return of everyone to the parking area by approximately 4:30 PM. Authorities emphasized that such sudden rises in water levels are common during Guadeloupe’s rainy conditions, underscoring the need for caution and awareness among hikers and residents.

This urgent response highlights the immediate impact of the severe weather alert on public safety in Guadeloupe, with officials continuing to monitor the situation closely.