Flood alert in Rhône-Alpes

FOUR departments in the Rhône-Alpes are on an "orange" weather alert from Météo France because of heavy rain and the risk of flooding.

The forecaster has put the warning in place until at least 6.00 on Saturday. The affected departments are the Ain, Isère, Savoie and Haute-Savoie.

Torrential rain and strong winds are expected in the region today and overnight. Drivers are being advised to avoid rural roads where possible.

Up to 10cm of rainfall is expected in parts of the Alps and the risk of flooding is intensified by melting snow from the mountains.

The alert level for a large part of northern and central France is "yellow" - meaning anyone practising an outdoor activity should be extra careful because of strong winds and rain.