The weather forecasts announce an episode of storms and heavy rains starting this Thursday, October 24, 2024 in the south-east of France. Departments from Gard to Alpes-Maritimes are preparing to endure particularly difficult weather conditions, with rainfall totals reaching alarming levels, endangering waterways and the safety of homes.
Starting tomorrow, on Thursday, October 24, 2024, a new wave of bad weather is forecast in the south-east of France, extending from Gard to Alpes-Maritimes. The weather forecasts indicate a wet and stormy episode, with particularly sustained precipitation expected to affect several departments, notably those in eastern Occitanie and the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region. This meteorological situation requires particular attention, given the soils already saturated from previous rains.
A new cévenole and Mediterranean episode
The forecasting models anticipate heavy rainfall in two main areas. On one hand, Gard as well as the south and east of Lozère, and on the other hand, the southern regions of PACA, particularly Var and Alpes-Maritimes. Rainfall totals could reach impressive levels: up to 200 mm in the Cévennes and between 100 and 200 mm in eastern PACA. Exceptional peaks of over 200 mm are also expected on the Côte d’Azur, especially between Fréjus and Nice.
An imminent impact on saturated soils
The soils already saturated from recent rainy episodes complicate the meteorological situation. The risk of water accumulation and flooding is high in certain areas, especially in Var and Alpes-Maritimes, where vigilance alerts have been issued. The soils have been so exposed to bad weather throughout 2024 that any new rain could lead to overflowing waterways and landslides.
Areas to monitor
The departments of Bouches-du-Rhône and Vaucluse seem largely spared from the most severe impacts of this situation. However, it remains crucial to stay vigilant, as Mediterranean storms are often difficult to predict accurately. Even though these regions are not in the immediate line of fire, they could experience indirect impacts depending on the evolution of weather conditions.
Rivers under high surveillance
With already significant totals reaching 300 to 400 mm in certain areas of Alpes-Maritimes since the beginning of October, it is imperative to monitor rivers, notably the Loup and Argens. These waterways, particularly sensitive after several days of rain, could indeed react quickly due to the new precipitation expected. Authorities have already issued recommendations to remain vigilant, mentioning the risk of thunderstorm showers in areas with high hydrological sensitivity.
Vigilance and necessary precautions
Currently, although Météo France has not yet issued an orange vigilance alert, the situation is being monitored closely. In Var, thunderstorm showers are expected overnight and during the day, with rainfall intensities that could be significant, particularly in the southern half of the region. The forecasts indicate that precautionary measures are necessary, especially for those living near waterways.
The predicted rainfall totals could be dangerous, especially in areas where the ground is already saturated. It is advisable to stay informed and follow the recommendations from authorities to mitigate the risks associated with flooding and other consequences of the impending bad weather.
Weather forecasts: Storms and heavy rains in the South-east
- Date : October 24, 2024
- Region : South-east of France, including Gard, Var and Alpes-Maritimes
- Episode : Bad weather, storms and heavy rains expected
- Rainfall accumulation : Up to 200 mm in the Cévennes
- Risks : Rising waters, vigilance on waterways
- Impact : Thunderstorm showers expected over several days
- Sensitivity : Soils already saturated from previous precipitation
