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Southern France is grappling with catastrophic flooding, causing widespread damage and disruption. Here’s everything you need to know about the ongoing crisis.
Severe weather has wreaked havoc across southeastern France, claiming the lives of three individuals and leaving two more missing. The region, already known for its picturesque landscapes and popular tourist spots, is now grappling with the aftermath of intense storms and widespread flooding. As cleanup efforts continue, the extent of the devastation becomes more apparent.
This week, the Var region, along with other parts of southeastern France, has been ravaged by torrential rain and flash floods. These storms have left behind a trail of destruction, submerging roads, damaging homes, and disrupting essential services. Emergency responders were quickly dispatched to assist with evacuations, search-and-rescue operations, and other immediate relief efforts.
Local reports confirm that two people tragically lost their lives when their car was swept away by powerful floodwaters in the Cavalière area, located east of Marseille. Another victim was found lifeless in her vehicle in Vidauban, situated north of St Tropez, after the heavy rains flooded the region.
Footage from the affected areas shows roads and streets completely submerged by fast-moving, muddy waters. The intense rainfall has created perilous conditions, making it difficult for both emergency personnel and local residents to navigate the area. The damage has been extensive, leaving thousands without electricity or water, while power lines and infrastructure have also suffered significant damage.
Over 500 emergency calls were reported by authorities as the storm system battered the region. Rescue operations have been ongoing, with hundreds of personnel deployed to assist the affected communities. The storms have led to widespread disruptions, with many residents stranded or cut off from basic services. Among the most significant disruptions was the closure of the La Môle/Saint-Tropez airfield, which has been rendered non-operational due to flooding. While conditions have improved since the height of the storm, the clean-up process is still underway.
The worst of the storms may have passed, but recovery efforts are far from complete. The floodwaters are receding, but many areas are still struggling to cope with the damage. Roads remain impassable in some areas, and many homes are still without power. The situation remains fluid, and authorities are urging residents and visitors to remain cautious as efforts to restore normalcy continue.
The southeastern coast, particularly the Var region, has borne the brunt of the extreme weather. Famous for its iconic destinations like Toulon, St Tropez, and the French Riviera, the area has been devastated by the floods. What is typically a bustling and thriving region for tourists has become a scene of destruction, with much of the local infrastructure severely impacted.
While there are currently no travel advisories in effect from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) regarding the floods, travelers should remain cautious when planning trips to affected areas. Although the most severe weather seems to have subsided, significant recovery efforts are still in progress, and some services remain interrupted.
For those still intending to travel to the region, it is important to stay updated on any potential travel disruptions. Some train lines have been impacted, and delays are expected to continue as repair work is carried out. Travelers are advised to check local news and official websites regularly to ensure they are aware of the latest developments.
Though many parts of France are unaffected by the flooding, those planning to visit the southeastern region should be vigilant. Most visits to other parts of the country remain safe, but the flood-prone areas in the southeast should be approached with caution. Keeping an eye on the flash flood watch pages and any local updates will be crucial for maintaining safety during travel.
While the situation in southern France is gradually stabilizing, the damage left by the severe storms will take time to repair. The devastating floods have caused significant disruption to both daily life and tourism in the region. Efforts to clear the debris are ongoing, with local officials dedicating themselves to reinstating vital services. For anyone traveling to the affected areas, it is vital to stay informed about the latest developments and adjust travel plans accordingly.
Source: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/france-hit-by-historic-floods-and-destructive-forces-leading-to-major-travel-disruption/