Stormy weather on the French Riviera: what to expect and what to do

The Alpes-Maritimes area was placed under Orange Alert for rain and flooding on Sunday afternoon. The alert will run until at least Tuesday.

There will be precipitation throughout nearly the whole of the Riviera starting from Monday morning. According to Météo France, no heavy rainfall is expected, but there will be rainfall over a period of time. These rains could be accompanied by storms, particularly in the western part of the Alpes-Maritimes.

Snow is expected above 2,200 meters, where it is possible that “40 to 50 cm could fall.”
The wind will blow relatively strongly, especially in the direction of Antibes, which may cause some sea turbulence. This phenomenon will worsen on Tuesday evening, as a southern swell will disrupt the outflow of the water towards the sea. Waves of 2.70 meters may be seen.”

According to the latest forecasts, the orange alert for “rain-flooding” will likely run at least until Tuesday morning, 6:00 am. The rainy period should continue until Tuesday noon.
Wednesday, the Alpes-Maritimes will enjoy a brief lull before rain returns on Thursday.

Orange Alert for thunderstorms and flooding risk: what to do (and what to avoid)

Météo France has placed the Alpes-Maritimes under alert for Wednesday 15h because of the heavy precipitation expected in the afternoon throughout the department.
Here are the recommendations issued by the authorities in case of an orange alert for thunderstorms and flooding risk.

Recommended action in case of a storm:
– When a storm is approaching, take precautions to protect or move indoors any objects which are sensitive to the wind.
– Do not take shelter under the trees.
– Avoid forest walks [and mountain walks].
– Avoid using the phone and electrical appliances.
– Immediately report the start of any fires you may witness.
– Under no circumstances should you go, on foot or by car, onto a submerged road or near a waterway or river. A vehicle, even a 4×4, can be carried away in 30 centimetres of water.
– In case of heavy rainfall, do not descend underground under any circumstances.

Recommended action in case of heavy precipitation (with risk of flooding):
– If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, keep yourself informed, follow the safety instructions, look out for your neighbours and take appropriate precautions.
– Take preventative action to protect your property from water. Do not go underground during a rainy period.
– Inquire before embarking on any travel or any other outdoor activity and be vigilant.
– If possible, avoid the secondary road network. Be cautious about possible difficult traffic conditions
– Under no circumstances should you go, on foot or by car, onto a submerged road or near a waterway or river. A vehicle, even a 4×4, can be carried away in 30 centimetres of water.

In short, stay vigilant and follow the recommended advice in order to keep yourself, your loved ones, and your property secure from rain and flooding during this period of alert.