Deadly Storms in Southern France: 3 Dead, Two Missing, Severe Flooding in the Var Region

A violent weather system has struck the Var department in southeastern France since early Tuesday, May 20. Torrential rains and thunderstorms have caused flash floods, claiming at least 3 life and leaving two people missing, as emergency services struggle to contain the impact.

A Rapidly Deteriorating Situation

The body of a victim was discovered in Le Lavandou, one of the areas hardest hit. Another person is still missing in the same town, while a third has disappeared in Vidauban, swept away by floodwaters while inside a vehicle. Authorities warn the toll may rise, as rescue and reconnaissance operations continue.

Exceptional Rainfall and Sudden Flooding

The town of Cavalière has recorded up to 250 mm of rain in just one hour—an extraordinary amount that triggered the collapse of a parking structure and widespread property damage. The river La Môle rose by more than 11 meters in less than two hours, a dramatic flash flood that submerged roads and isolated entire communities.

Emergency services have reported over 50 flood-related interventions in the affected zones, including the deployment of more than 200 firefighters and reinforcements from neighboring departments. Two Dragon helicopters were dispatched to assist with rescue operations.

Major Disruptions and Safety Measures

As of midday Tuesday, 40 people had been evacuated to safety, including 21 in Bormes-les-Mimosas and 11 in Vidauban. However, 635 homes remain without power, and at least 11 departmental roads are still impassable due to high water levels, debris, or structural collapse. The small La Môle-Saint-Tropez airport has also been closed indefinitely.

Local governments have activated emergency response plans in numerous towns, including Gonfaron, Le Luc, and Puget-sur-Argens. In several schools, children were kept in lockdown for their safety. In Cavalière, a group of campers remains confined inside a flooded holiday site, while some residents described floodwaters reaching hip height inside homes and businesses.

Persistent Risk Despite Diminishing Rainfall

Although the worst of the storm is gradually moving eastward toward the Alpes-Maritimes, the risk of further flooding remains. Météo-France has extended the orange alert for rain and flooding until at least 2 p.m., warning of continued danger on the basins of La Môle, La Giscle, and the Aille. Residents have been urged to avoid travel and stay away from rivers and low-lying areas.

Wider Impacts Beyond the Var

The storm system is part of a broader wave of extreme weather that also lashed southwestern France overnight. Near Tonneins (Lot-et-Garonne), the collapse of rail ballast due to torrential rain forced the suspension of train traffic between Bordeaux and Toulouse for several days. A TGV carrying over 500 passengers had to be evacuated in the middle of the night.

Authorities across the south of France remain on high alert, as this episode of intense and stationary storms—marked by thousands of lightning strikes and wind gusts nearing 100 km/h—continues to challenge emergency services and disrupt daily life.