This Monday, October 7, 2024, Météo France issued an orange alert for the risk of rain and flooding in Ardèche, Lozère and Gard. A rainy-stormy episode is expected overnight, with intense precipitation in the Cévennes, where up to 200 mm of rain could fall in a few hours.
According to forecasts, the rains will begin to intensify during the night from Monday to Tuesday. Over a dozen hours, accumulations of 150 to 200 mm could be observed locally, mainly in the Cevennes areas. “This is a typical phenomenon for this region, but its early occurrence in October merits increased vigilance.», Explains a meteorologist from Météo France. The phenomenon, without being of exceptional magnitude, still requires special attention due to the expected intensity of precipitation over a short period of time.
Weather France | See the vigilance map
Also read | Good reflexes to adopt during periods of intense rain.
Thunderstorms are also expected this afternoon in Aquitaine, before progressing towards the north-east of the country. However, it is the Cévennes region which will experience the heaviest precipitation during the night. This type of situation can quickly lead to local flooding, particularly in low-lying areas or near rivers.
Faced with these weather conditions, the authorities recommend the greatest caution. Travel should be limited and residents are encouraged to closely monitor upcoming updates from Météo France.
Other departments, currently on yellow alert, could also see their alert level move to orange depending on the evolution of the phenomenon. It is therefore essential to monitor the next few hours carefully.
