The Gard department remains under Orange vigilance for “Rain-flood” and “Thunderstorms”, as well as under yellow vigilance for “Floods” this Wednesday, October 16. This situation could persist until Thursday, October 17, according to forecasts.
A situation that is getting worse
Since last night, a rain-storm episode has affected the department, with particular intensity in the Cévennes sector. Precipitation is expected to continue throughout the day, accompanied by southeast winds of up to 80 km/h. The forecasts announce cumulative rainfall of 50 to 100 mm on the plains, and between 100 and 200 mm on the Cévennes relief, with local peaks reaching 250 mm on the Aigoual. The rising waters are already causing the flooding of several courses of water, requiring increased vigilance when traveling, particularly near fords. Five submersible bridges were closed to traffic: – Pont de Massies in Thoiras (RD284A) – Access bridge in Corbès (RD284) – Passerelle d’Anduze (RD129A) – Pont de Chamborigaud (RD906) – Pont de Paussan in Mialet (RD50B)
Watercourses under surveillance
All rivers in the department are currently on yellow flood alert: Vistre, Vidourle, Cèze Amont, Cèze Aval, Gardons d’Alès, Gardon d’Anduze, Ardèche Aval, and Gardon Aval. The situation remains worrying, particularly for the plain areas, where significant accumulations of rain are expected in the second part of the day and in the evening of Thursday.
Imminent decision on school transport
Given the French weather forecasts which anticipate a possible worsening of the situation for Thursday, a decision on maintaining or suspending school transport will be taken at the beginning of the afternoon. Local authorities remain on alert and will communicate information as soon as possible.
Safety instructions
Faced with this situation, the authorities recommend that the population limit their travel and never use submerged routes, submersible bridges or ford crossings, whether closed or partially submerged. To stay informed of the For developments in the situation, consult the sites www.gard.gouv.fr, www.meteofrance.fr, www.vigicrues.gouv.fr and www.inforoute30.fr, as well as the broadcasts of France Bleu Gard Lozère.
