Storm Nils is currently impacting southern France, leading to severe weather conditions that include winds up to 160 km/h and significant flooding and tree falls across multiple departments. On Thursday, Météo-France issued red alerts for five regions: Savoie, Aude, Gironde, Pyrénées-Orientales, and Lot-et-Garonne, indicating high risks of avalanches, violent winds, and flooding. The storm is classified as having 'uncommon force' due to its intensity, and observers noted gusts exceeding 160 km/h in some areas during the night, particularly in the Landes.

In addition to the red alerts, approximately thirty other departments are under orange alert as the storm continues to pose a threat, described by Météo-France as a 'remarkable' weather event. The agency has been closely monitoring the meteorological developments, as the storm’s effects are expected to disrupt daily life and infrastructure in the affected regions. As authorities prepare for the potential impact, residents are urged to stay updated and exercise caution.

This episode highlights the ongoing issues related to climate change and extreme weather events in Europe, with France experiencing an increasing frequency of such storms. The severe weather poses risks not only to individuals and properties but also raises alarm regarding preparedness and resilience strategies in the face of future adverse weather conditions. The government and local agencies are likely to undertake urgent assessments to address the immediate aftermath and future implications of such storms.