Two municipalities declared a natural disaster

The municipalities of Bourseville and Maisnières, located in Vimeu, were officially classified as in a state of natural disaster after the violent floods of November 18 and 19, 2024. A recognition which paves the way for compensation for victims.

Official recognition after major damage

On November 18 and 19, 2024, the Picardy territory was hit by bad weather of rare intensity. In the municipalities of Bourseville et Maisnièreslocated in the Vimeu region, the torrential rains caused floods massive and mudslidesdamaging homes, infrastructure and agricultural land. These events prompted the authorities to declare a state of natural disaster, according to a decree published in Official Journal on December 16.

This recognition allows the residents concerned to initiate procedures with their assurances to request compensation. They have until January 20, 2025 to assert their rights.

The disrupted daily lives of residents

On site, local residents are trying to recover after this devastating episode. “We lost some of our furniture and our walls are still soaked with humidity,” says a resident of Maisnièresstill in shock from these events. HAS Boursevillesame echo: roads damaged by water make certain trips complicated, and the cost of repair work worries the victims.

The Somme prefecture now ensures that it supports residents in their efforts. A interministerial civil defense and protection service was made available to answer questions at 03 22 97 80 80.

A climate emergency

This recognition of a natural disaster once again illustrates the vulnerability of territories to climate change. Specialists point out that in Picardy as elsewhere, the amplification of these extreme phenomena requires anticipatory measures to protect the property and lives of residents.

Faced with this problem, local authorities and residents hope that structuring investments will take place to improve water management, particularly in areas like Vimeu, prone to flash floods.

Key information for residents

To initiate compensation procedures, victims must:

• Report damage to their insurer before January 20, 2025;
• Provide proof (photos, quotes, invoices) of losses incurred;
• Contact the prefecture or the interministerial service if necessary.