Storm Nils Devastates Southwestern France with Flooding, Power Outages, and Fatalities

Storm Nils continues to batter southwestern France, leaving a trail of severe flooding, widespread power outages, and multiple casualties. As of February 13, 2026, the Garonne River remains under a red flood alert, with water levels in La Réole rising over 8.30 meters, an increase of 2 meters in the last 24 hours. Officials warn the flood peak, expected between Saturday night and Sunday, could surpass previous events from 2019 and 2021, potentially reaching up to 9.7 meters. Nearby municipalities such as Marmande and Tonneins are also affected, with preemptive evacuations ordered in parts of Dordogne, including Montignac-Lascaux, to protect vulnerable residents.

The storm's impact extends beyond flooding. Approximately 450,000 households remain without electricity, down from an initial 900,000 affected, as the utility Enedis works to restore power. The hardest-hit regions are Nouvelle-Aquitaine with 292,000 households and Occitanie with 153,000. Enedis has mobilized 3,000 personnel, including 2,100 technicians, describing this restoration effort as historically significant due to the storm's extraordinary strength.

Tragically, Storm Nils has claimed two lives—a 55-year-old truck driver struck by a falling branch in Landes and a second victim in Tarn-et-Garonne, where strong winds gusted up to 162 km/h. Additionally, there have been five serious injuries and 21 minor injuries reported, resulting in over 4,500 emergency interventions. The storm also caused considerable material damage, including uprooted trees, overturned vehicles, damaged roofs, and boats sunk at a marina in Port-la-Nouvelle.

Authorities remain vigilant with 23 departments under various weather alerts, including changes in avalanche risk in the Alps, while further rainfall is expected, raising concerns about flooding levels yet to peak. With flooding and wind damage ongoing, local officials stress the importance of continued caution.

Government spokesperson Maud Bregeon summarized the situation, noting the two fatalities and extensive disruptions. Olivier Duthille-Pairault, head of the hydraulic risk service in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, emphasized the unpredictability of flood peaks amid continuing heavy rains. Residents in affected areas are urged to stay alert as emergency services and utility companies continue their response efforts.