the program “On the front” gives a voice to those who try to better prevent disasters

In October 2020, storm Alex ravaged the Vésubie and Roya valleys (Alpes-Maritimes). A shock for a territory hit again by a storm on October 20. This region of France is not the only one to have been affected by this type of submersion. Storms, thunderstorms, torrential rains, and Mediterranean episodes constitute the most dangerous natural risks, according to Météo-France. They are intensifying due to climate change and require a reconsideration of town planning, as recalled in the program “Storms, floods: are we ready?”, broadcast on Monday November 6 at 9 p.m. on France 5.

This new issue of “On the front”, presented by Hugo Clément also reveals the flaws in our weather forecasts. It also focuses on homes built in flood-prone areas, lists new technologies and the initiatives of scientists, activists and architects who work to reduce the impact of disasters.

Rethink the environment

Eric Daniel-Lacombe is one of these professionals on the front line. “In 2007, I won an architectural competition, here in Romorantin (Loir-et-Cher), testifies the architect in the documentary. No one told me the area was prone to flooding.” As soon as he learned about it, he completely rethought his initial project and considered the overall environment of the area to be rehabilitated.

“The houses are on half-stilts, propped up on the expected height of the water. Everything is parallel: the streets, the buildings (…) No obstacle blocks the path of the river.”

Eric Daniel-Lacombe, architect

in the documentary “Storms, floods: are we ready?”

A few years later, in 2016, the town of Romorantin experienced the worst flood in its history. The Matra district designed by Eric Daniel-Lacombe is resisting, as a resident testifies. “I have lived here since 2013, I experienced the floods which impressed me, but the water did not enter the building at all. I think it was very good studied”, she believes. This project transforms the life and the conception that the architect has of his profession. This teacher at the National School of Architecture of Paris-La Villette then becomes a specialist in construction in Flood zone.

In 2022, he is tasked by the State with rebuilding the destroyed Vésubie valley. If his expertise is praised today, he is annoyed to see that buildings are still being built “everywhere” in France in riverbeds. “What keeps me from sleeping is that I can’t get prevention started before disasters occur,” he gets irritated.