Severe Flooding Strikes Southern France Amid Record Rainfall

Four departments are on red alert as heavy rains cause widespread evacuations and infrastructure disruptions.

The Ardèche, Loire, Haute-Loire, and Rhône departments are under red alert due to intense rainfall and flooding, with up to 700 mm of rain recorded in some areas.
Major disruptions include the closure of roads and schools, particularly in Annonay where the town center is heavily flooded.
In Givors, 180 residents have been evacuated due to rising water levels, and similar precautionary measures are being taken in other affected regions.
Transportation is severely impacted with the closure of the A47 highway and suspension of train services between Saint-Etienne and Lyon.
Authorities warn against false information spreading on social media and urge residents to follow official updates and safety guidelines.