France – Evacuations in South as Rivers Overflow

by in Europe, News

Heavy rain, up to 200 mm in some areas, caused flooding in parts of the Occitanie Region in southern France yesterday, 14 February.

Météo-France issued an orange level alert for flooding rain for the Aude, Hérault and Tarn departments on 14 February. Levels of the Aude River increased dramatically, causing the river to overflow in several areas during the afternoon of 14 February.

Flood and heavy rain warnings from Meteo France, 14 February, 2017

Local media report that around 150 people were evacuated and several houses flooded in Aude department. Flooded areas include Saint-Marcel, Marcorignan, Coursan, Conques-sur-Orbiel, Cuxac, Sallèles-d’Aude and Peyriac-Minervois. River levels have since started to fall.

Levels of the Aude River at several stations 12 to 15 February 2017. Image: Vigicrues
Levels of the Aude River at several stations, 12 to 15 February 2017. Image: Vigicrues

Rainfall

Local media report that many areas recorded over 100 mm of rain in 36 hours from Tuesday 14 February, with La Salvetat in Hérault recording 215 mm and Labastide-Rouairoux in Tarn department recording 200 mm.

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