Following the impressive floods that hit Rive-de-Gier on Thursday October 17, 2024, the town still remains inaccessible from the motorway but the latter has reopened to traffic for light vehicles.
The essentials of the day: our exclusive selection
Every day, our editorial team reserves the best regional news for you. A selection just for you, to stay in touch with your regions.
France Télévisions uses your email address to send you the newsletter “Today’s essentials: our exclusive selection”. You can unsubscribe at any time via the link at the bottom of this newsletter. Our privacy policy
It’s a Thursday that will always be remembered. On October 17, 2024, a surprising flood of the Gier flooded the city center of Rive-de-Gier, pushing thousands of people to seek shelter. The impressive images of the submerged cars have gone viral on the internet.
This Friday morning, it is time to assess the damage. The A47 motorway reopened to traffic at 4:30 this morning for light vehicles between Saint-Etienne and Givors, without but strictly prohibited for heavy goods vehicles. Access to Rive-de-Gier also remains closed.
SNCF traffic between Lyon and Saint-Etienne is not expected to resume for several days.
15 people were sheltered in a nursery school overnight. “We are fortunate not to report any human loss, injury or disappearance.” rejoices François Tulat, the municipality’s communications director. “The alert system worked well, people were able to take action and seek shelter.“, he continues.
This morning, it’s time to take stock and clean up. Le Gier returned to his bed but “the spectacle is distressing. The cars are on top of each other, there are branches and stones everywhere” explains the town hall employee. An army regiment should go to the scene to help residents clear their town.
In the department, 336 people were involved in rescue operations. The firefighters carried out 416 interventions including 11 rescues and 51 safety efforts. As a security measure and by order of the prefecture, many public and private schools will remain closed today.
The department is still on orange “flood” and “rain, flood” alert.
Review our special edition of Ici 19/20 from October 17
Review our special edition of Ici 12/13 from October 18
Related News :