Northwestern France is bracing for potential flooding and overflowing rivers as Storm Aven brings heavy rainfall and powerful winds to the region. The meteorological agency Météo-France has issued an orange alert for rain and flooding in the Morbihan department, effective from 6 PM on Friday, January 24. Several areas in Brittany and Normandy have also been placed under a yellow alert.
According to the agency, rain began late Thursday night in Brittany, though Morbihan has yet to experience the full brunt of the storm. Friday evening is expected to bring persistent and occasionally intense rainfall, particularly in Brittany. The storm’s impact has been more severe in northern England, Scotland, and Ireland, where wind speeds exceeded 180 kilometers per hour in some areas. Ireland recorded a new wind speed record of 183 kilometers per hour.
In France, wind speeds are expected to be relatively lower, though coastal areas in Brittany could see gusts reaching 100 to 110 kilometers per hour. Météo-France has warned that the already saturated ground increases the risk of flooding. Rainfall of 20 to 40 millimeters is anticipated on Friday, potentially easing by midnight.
However, meteorologists caution that the flood risk will persist in the coming days due to additional rainfall, as the ground is already waterlogged. Météo-France has indicated the possibility of extending the orange alert to other departments, particularly those already under a yellow alert.
Local authorities have urged residents to take precautionary measures in light of Storm Aven’s impact. Preparations are underway to relocate residents in flood-prone areas to safer locations. The increasing frequency of such extreme weather events, attributed to climate change, poses significant risks to lives and property across the region.
