Historic Floods: Three Departments on Red Alert, Four on Orange, One Under Avalanche Warning

Three Departments on Red Alert

As of Tuesday, January 28, Météo-France has placed Ille-et-Vilaine, Morbihan, and Loire-Atlantique under red alert for exceptional flooding, caused by months of heavy rainfall and the recent storms Eowyn and Herminia. These three departments, traversed by rivers such as the Seiche and the Vilaine, are experiencing water levels surpassing historic records from 1966 and 1995. Saturated soil and continuous rainfall are worsening the situation.

In the lower Vilaine area, which separates Morbihan and Loire-Atlantique, towns such as Pierric, Redon, Avessac, and Plessé are particularly affected. Authorities have emphasized the importance of never driving on flooded roads. A decrease in water levels is not expected until Thursday, and the red alert remains in place at least until Wednesday, January 29.

Four Departments on Orange Alert and One Under Avalanche Warning

In addition to the red alerts, four other departments — Calvados, Maine-et-Loire, Mayenne, and Orne — remain on orange alert for significant flooding. Vigicrues reports that rivers such as the Oudon, Oust, and upper Vilaine are also at high risk.

Meanwhile, the Hautes-Alpes department is under an orange alert for an increased risk of avalanches. On a positive note, the Eure department, previously on flood alert, has been downgraded to yellow, and the coastal wave-submersion warning for the Atlantic coasts has been lifted.

Record Rainfall and Another Storm on the Way

In Ille-et-Vilaine, January has set new records for rainfall, with cumulative levels reaching 170 mm in Rennes, according to Météo-France. Rainfall this month has been three times higher than average, marking a new high since 1944.

Unfortunately, the situation may worsen. Another active weather system is expected to hit the northwest on Wednesday, bringing more rain to already saturated watersheds. Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant in the face of these exceptional conditions.