Météo France alert for storms and floods in south east
Two departments in the south-east of France - the Bouches-du-Rhône and the Var - are on orange alert for storms, strong wind, rain and flooding, forecaster Météo France has warned.
The alert - the second-most serious - was posted at 6h this morning (Monday October 8), and is due to last until at least 6h tomorrow (Tuesday October 9).
Storms have been confirmed for today, and the forecaster suggests that heavy rain could cause standing water and flooding to accumulate. Hail and strong gusts of wind may also occur, with gusts of up to 90kph.
Conditions are expected to be most extreme on the coastlines, and less pronounced further inland.
In the Var, up to 20-30mm of rain are expected, on top of the 50-60mm already seen on Sunday.
Levels could reach 110mm in total in some places, the warning said, and as much as 150mm in the Bouches-du-Rhône by tomorrow.
Strong storms and lightning could damage property and pose a threat to pedestrians and human life, Météo France added.
It warned people to be alert to problems on the roads, including low visibility, flooding, and traffic jams. Other forms of transport, including local trains and buses, could also be affected, it said.
It warned residents to be alert, and only go outside or take part in activities if absolutely necessary. The use of electrical items, including smartphones, should be avoided outside.
Similarly, garden furniture and other objects should be safely stowed, tied down, or covered.
