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Southern France battles floods, power cuts and avalanche risks amid relentless storms

From flooded streets to avalanche warnings, southern France is on high alert. Will the storms ease—or worsen before temperatures plummet?

The image shows a picturesque winter scene of Strasbourg, France, with a river running through a...
The image shows a picturesque winter scene of Strasbourg, France, with a river running through a small town next to tall buildings. The water is still and calm, reflecting the snow-covered trees and buildings, and the sky is visible in the background.

Southern France battles floods, power cuts and avalanche risks amid relentless storms

Heavy rain and snow have disrupted daily life across southern France, with thousands left without power and schools shut. The unsettled weather is set to continue, bringing further challenges to the region this week.

Around 2,500 homes remain without electricity after persistent rain battered parts of the country. Schools in Narbonne (Aude) have closed, and transport services there are suspended. Several parks and public spaces in Aude and Hérault are also off-limits, while planned events have been called off.

Four departments stay on orange alert for heavy rain and flash flooding. The western Mediterranean and Corsica will see more downpours on Monday. By the afternoon, rain will spread to the Atlantic coast, Normandy, Brittany, and the Pyrenees.

Forecasters warn of heavy snow in the Pyrenees and Corsica, raising the risk of storms and avalanches. A brief rise in temperatures—reaching 10C to 11C—will offer a short respite before colder conditions return. By early next week, readings will dip below seasonal averages.

The south and south-east of France face a wet week ahead, with little sign of improvement.

The ongoing rain and snow have already forced closures and cancellations in multiple areas. With temperatures set to fall further, authorities are monitoring risks from flooding, avalanches, and power outages. Residents are advised to stay updated on local alerts as conditions develop.

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