Météo France warns of 120kph wind for Storm Eleanor

The alert, which was published late this morning (Tuesday January 2), warns of strong winds across Aisne (02), Calvados (14), Eure (27), Eure-et-Loir (28), Loiret (45), Manche (50), Nord (59), Oise (60), Orne (61), Pas-de-Calais (62), Paris and surroundings (75-92-93-94), Seine-Maritime (76), Seine-et-Marne (77), Yvelines (78), Somme (80), Essonne (91) and Val-d'Oise (95).

The Finistère coastline (29) is also on alert for high waves that are expected to be “particularly intense” and may breach beach walls and other coastline barriers, and cause flooding, according to Météo France.

The wind expected in the alert regions will be comparable to that of Storm Carmen - which swept through the country on January 1 - the forecaster said, with the strongest gusts expected on Wednesday morning (January 3).

Wind speeds could reach up to 120kph on the coast, and 100-110kph closer inland, and could even soar higher in the event of thunder and rain.

Météo France also warns that the wind level and subsequent damage risks affecting electricity and telephone lines.

The official advice to residents is to go outside only if necessary, and to watch out for falling trees or branches and other objects that could be affected by strong winds. Homeowners are warned to strap down or bring indoors any outside or garden objects that may be affected, and any outside building work - especially on roofs - should be postponed.

You are also warned not to go into the sea or take part in any watersports, and to keep away from the coastline and any beaches. Boat owners are warned to safeguard their vessels from damage or the potential of being swept away or grounded.

Any professionals who absolutely must enter the water should do so with utmost caution, and employ all security measures such as life jackets and harnesses.

Notice of Storm Eleanor comes just 24 hours after Storm Carmen hit (and after Storm Dylan, which did not reach France), leaving at least one person in France dead and tens of thousands of homes without power.