Météo France Expands Orange Alert for Thunderstorms to 26 Departments
On Sunday, July 20, Météo France announced an expansion of the orange alert for thunderstorms, now affecting 26 departments in the northeastern, central-eastern, and southeastern regions of the country. The alert warns of severe weather conditions expected to persist until Monday, July 21.
The orange alert includes warnings for heavy rainfall and the risk of flooding in eight departments.
Strong Winds and Hail Expected
Météo France has issued warnings for the possibility of gusty winds ranging from 70 to 90 km/h, with some areas experiencing winds up to 120 km/h. A gust of 105 km/h was recorded in “Lons-le-Saunier” in the Jura department. Additionally, the agency forecasts increased electrical activity, with heavy rainfall of 20 to 40 mm locally in a short period, along with hailstones potentially reaching 3 cm in diameter.
Property Damage and Flood Warnings
In the Ain department, fire services reported property damage due to storms and high winds, which have uprooted or damaged roofs in several towns.
The Alps and the lower Rhône valley, extending to eastern Languedoc, are expected to experience intense rain this evening, with rainfall amounts projected between 50 and 80 mm, and localized totals reaching up to 100 mm. This raises the risk of flash floods and landslides.
Météo France is monitoring the situation closely and urges residents in the affected areas to exercise caution and follow safety instructions from local authorities.
