Thirty years later, Anjou remembers the floods of January 1995

In January 1995, a historic flood hit Maine-et-Loire. Thirty years later, a series of commemorative events, organized by the SMBVAR, highlights this episode, while raising residents’ awareness of flood risk management.

In January 1995, an exceptional flood shocked Anjou. The overflows of the Mayenne, Sarthe and Loir rivers have reached historic levels, transforming the lower Angevin valleys into a vast lake.

Thirty years later, this significant episode is commemorated through a series of events organized by the Mixed Union of Lower Angevin Valleys and Romme (SMBVAR). This month of memory, which extends until 1^is February, aims as much to honor the past as to raise awareness of the ever-present risk of flooding.

A traveling exhibition in five municipalities

The villages most affected in 1995 host exhibitions highlighting period testimonies and images of flooded areas. Among them, Grez-Neuville, Rives-du-Loir-en-Anjou, Cheffes, Briollay and Écouflant will allow residents to rediscover the impact of this event on their territory.

Debates evenings, associated with activities specific to each municipality, also invite participants to reflect on flood management today. Although no major flood has been recorded for 25 years, the SMBVAR offers educational activities, such as tours around flood markers or practical workshops on good reflexes in the event of evacuation, to raise awareness among younger generations.

A day dedicated to Angers

The 1^is February, a special day will be held at the Angers convention center. On the program: screenings, conferences, round tables and workshops. Visitors will be able to remember the 1995 flood through a documentary, discover current digital tools such as Vigicrues, and explore the impacts of flooding on town planning and biodiversity.

Boat trips and fun courses, such as the simulation of a reception center for disaster victims, will be added to this day.

All events are accessible free of charge. The detailed program is available on the SMBVAR website.

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