Northern and central France are under heightened flood vigilance following a week of heavy rainfall, with 14 departments, including Aisne and Calvados, receiving a yellow alert from Météo France. Saturated soils are struggling to absorb more rain, increasing the risk of local flooding and river overflow. Residents are advised to exercise caution, especially near waterways, elevate belongings, and stay informed on weather updates as the situation remains critical despite the sun’s tentative return.
Increased Flood Vigilance in Northern and Central France
Following a week of relentless rainfall, northern and central regions of France are now under close observation due to heightened flood risks. The substantial downpours experienced earlier in the week have caused water levels to surge, prompting Météo France to issue a yellow ‘flood’ alert for 14 departments as of Saturday. This alert serves as a warning against potential local flooding and river overflow.
Current Weather Conditions and Impact
As the sun makes a hesitant appearance across much of France, the already saturated soils are struggling to absorb any additional rainfall. This weekend, many river basins, especially in the northwest, are facing significant pressure. Consequently, residents and motorists are urged to exercise heightened caution, particularly on roads that run alongside waterways.
The challenges posed by heavy rainfall and waterlogged grounds have been especially severe in northern France, where rapid accumulations have occurred. This unpredictable weather has left little opportunity for effective soil infiltration, thereby raising the likelihood of sudden floods. Météo France is closely monitoring river levels in areas where waterways tend to react quickly to changes in weather. Despite the sun’s gradual return, the situation remains critical, with minimum temperatures ranging from -1 to 3 °C in the plains and reaching up to 8 °C along the coast. Maximum temperatures vary between 7 and 15 °C across different regions, resulting in a slow evaporation process that does little to alleviate the saturated conditions.
So, which 14 departments are currently under flood vigilance? The yellow alert primarily affects those in the northwestern and central-western parts of France as of Saturday, March 1, 2025. The departments on high alert include Aisne, Calvados, Charente-Maritime, Eure, Eure-et-Loir, Gironde, Ille-et-Vilaine, Loir-et-Cher, Maine-et-Loire, Mayenne, Oise, Sarthe, Somme, and Pyrénées-Atlantiques. Additionally, South Corsica has also been placed under yellow alert due to rain and flooding risks, with expected precipitation likely to increase local water levels.
Météo France emphasizes the importance of following safety precautions for residents in the affected areas. It may seem obvious, but avoiding travel on flooded roads is crucial, as even shallow water can conceal dangerous conditions like hidden holes or strong currents. For those living in flood-prone regions, elevating personal belongings and preparing sandbags can be vital in minimizing water damage. Staying updated with weather reports and adhering to local authority guidance is essential for navigating the ongoing flood risks.
While the sun’s return offers hope for improvement, vigilance is still crucial this weekend. Residents in the impacted departments are encouraged to keep a close watch on water levels and limit non-essential travel. Special caution is advised in areas where water levels are already alarmingly high.