Feb 19 • 17:49 UTC 🇫🇷 France Le Figaro

"Some do not wish to leave their homes, but the water continues to rise": In Saintes, police officers assist the victims

In Saintes, France, police are providing assistance to residents affected by significant flooding while encouraging those who refuse to leave their homes to evacuate as water levels rise.

In the town of Saintes, located in the Charente-Maritime region of France, significant flooding has impacted over 2000 homes, with more than 1100 being directly inundated. Authorities, including CRS officers, have been deployed to ensure public safety and assist with evacuations in the affected areas. Despite the evident risks, some residents are hesitant to leave their homes, prompting police to adopt a careful and tactful approach in their efforts to persuade them to evacuate.

The flooding, which has persisted for nearly a week, has prompted officials to increase their presence in vulnerable sectors to maintain order and provide support to the local population. Major Sandrine, a police officer patrolling the area, highlighted the importance of having a visible presence in flood-affected zones to reassure citizens and encourage compliance with evacuation orders. The emergency response teams are working tirelessly to balance the need for security with the compassion necessary to support those impacted by the disaster.

As the situation develops with rising water levels, the authorities are facing challenges in addressing the needs of displaced residents while ensuring their safety. The delicate balance between enforcing safety regulations and respecting the wishes of individuals who may be reluctant to evacuate illustrates the complex dynamics of emergency response in flood situations. With ongoing efforts to aid affected communities, the focus remains on minimizing risks and ensuring the safety of residents as the crisis unfolds.

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