The Rhône is currently placed on orange alert due to a significant flood caused by heavy rains and inflow from the Cevennes tributaries. This alert level, activated by the Grand Delta flood forecasting service, highlights the increased risks of flooding, particularly in municipalities such as Avignon, Lapalud, and Mondragon. Authorities urge the public to stay informed, avoid high-risk areas, and exercise caution in their movements. The weather situation remains delicate, necessitating essential precautions for everyone’s safety.
The Grand Delta flood forecasting service recently triggered a level orange alert for the Rhône, due to a significant rise in the Cevennes waterways. This situation, particularly affecting the northern part of Vaucluse and the city of Avignon, requires special attention from residents and users. In this article, we will examine the risks of this flood, the measures already in place, and advice for staying safe.
Evolution of the hydrological situation
Since last night, a progressive increase in flows on the Rhône has been observed, resulting from inflows of high waters from the Cevennes tributaries. The peak of this flood is anticipated around 9 PM in the northern part of Vaucluse, with maximum values expected in Avignon around 1 AM. It is crucial to monitor changes in hydrological conditions, as rapid fluctuations may lead to flooding risks.
Risk areas and local impacts
The municipalities most threatened by this flood include notably Avignon, as well as towns such as Lapalud, Mondragon, Lamotte-du-Rhône, and Caderousse. These cities have responded by activating their communal emergency plan (PCS) for the protection of people and property. Precautions have been taken at the local level to ensure the safety of residents against potential flooding.
Safety measures and traffic
To preserve public safety, several traffic routes will be completely closed. Starting at 6 PM, the allées de l’Oulle in Avignon as well as Dr. Pons road and the exit ramps from Pont de l’Europe will be inaccessible. Other roads around the high-risk areas may also be temporarily forbidden. It is important for all road users to respect these restrictions and avoid entering flooded roads.
Monitoring and communication of alerts
The departmental operational center has been activated in standby mode since 4 PM to monitor the evolution of the situation. Additionally, the Vaucluse department is under a level yellow weather warning due to predicted storms and rain-floods. Forecasts indicate thunderstorms that may be accompanied by strong gusts of wind, amplifying the risks of flooding in the region.
Stay informed and vigilant
To cope with this situation, it is essential to stay well informed. It is advised to keep an ear on local media, such as France Bleu Vaucluse, for up-to-date information. Authorities recommend regularly checking the flood forecasting website to keep abreast of alerts and changes in the situation.
Practical safety advice
Here are some practical tips to follow during this period of heightened vigilance:
- Stay informed with local authorities.
- Avoid engaging in water sports during this flood period.
- Do not enter flooded roads, even if they appear partially submerged.
- Comply with road signage in place near high-risk areas.
Adopting these precautions can contribute to your safety and that of others during the alert period on the Rhône.
- Cause: Significant contributions from the Cevennes tributaries
- Start of alert: Activation at 12:00 PM
- Flood peak: Expected around 9:00 PM in the northern part of Vaucluse
- Risk areas: Avignon, Lapalud, Mondragon, Lamotte-du-Rhône, Caderousse
- Safety measures: Communal emergency plans activated
- Traffic: Road closures starting at 6:00 PM
- Additional weather vigilance: Yellow level for storms and flood-rain
- Precautionary advice: Avoid water activities and flooded roads
- Listening to local media: France Bleu Vaucluse 100.4 FM
- Monitoring the situation: Flood forecasting website
