Western France floods deepen after 35 days of rain
Severe flooding in western France continues after an extended period of rain, leading to evacuations and warnings from authorities.
Western France is currently experiencing severe flooding after enduring 35 consecutive days of rain. The town of Libourne has seen the Dordogne river overflow into streets, although reported damage is limited at this time. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely as a new storm coupled with high tides adds to the challenges faced in the region. Red alerts have been issued for several areas, including Loire-Atlantique and Maine-et-Loire, indicating the seriousness of the flooding situation.
In Angers, residents in lower districts have been affected significantly, with some forced to relocate due to rising water levels. Evacuations have also taken place in Lot-et-Garonne, with more than 1,700 individuals displaced from their homes. The persistent rainfall has caused power outages, affecting thousands of households. Although meteorologists anticipate a shift to drier weather in the near future, they emphasize that river levels are likely to continue rising as the accumulated water flows downstream towards the sea.
The long duration of rainfall coupled with intense local flooding poses significant risks to infrastructure and public safety. The government's warnings about the ongoing nature of this flooding event highlight the necessity for continued vigilance and preparedness among residents and local authorities alike. This situation underscores the growing impact of extreme weather events in this part of France, raising concerns about potential long-term consequences for communities in affected areas.