French departments on orange alert for violent storms

The forecaster warned that lightning and hailstorms were possible, as well as wind gusts of 60-80 kph, and up to 20mm of rainfall in 30 minutes.

The storms have been classified as an “orange” risk due to their strength, with Météo France saying there could be “a risk to life”.

The more mountainous regions are expected to see stronger, shorter but more violent storms; while the more southern areas were forecast to see longer but less intense activity.

Residents are warned to be vigilant, especially when travelling outside and taking part in outside activities, and to secure any outdoors objects or furniture. People are also advised not to use electronics or devices outdoors.

The alert is expected to finish around midday today.

The full list of departments on alert is:

The Lozère, Haute-Loire, Loire, Rhône, Isère and Ain.

The Aveyron, Cantal, Puy-de-Dôme and Tarn-et-Garonne were previously on alert, but this has now been lifted for these departments.