Storm alerts raised across France: hail forecast in east
Three weeks worth of rain could fall this afternoon in some areas
Storms will bring heavy rainfall and gales particularly to the east
Andrey Solovev / Shutterstock
Heightened storm warnings are in place this afternoon in eastern France, with a powerful barrage set to hit the area.
However, the uncertain pattern of the storm and several other breakouts elsewhere means that all but four of France’s mainland departments are facing storm alerts today.
Isère, Drôme, and Ardèche will face tier-three orange warnings between 15:00 and 18:00, as the fiercest of the storms are expected at this time.
All other departments with the exception of Aude, Calvados, Eure, and Seine-Maritime face tier-two yellow alerts lasting throughout the day.
The main storm is set to hit the east of France in the early afternoon before moving west and south as the evening progresses.
Up to 80mm of rain could fall in the departments facing heightened warning during the three-hour period – the equivalent of three weeks of average September rainfall – with gales of 100 km/h also expected.
Hail is probable in several areas in the east, including the departments facing heightened warnings.
The storms will disperse in most areas overnight, with only eastern areas near the German border facing warnings tomorrow.
However, it is recommended to keep up with conditions through local media and state forecaster Météo France, as the unpredictable nature of the conditions may change course and warning levels.
A surprise storm at the beginning of the week in Brittany saw a tornado rip through a village in Morbihan, destroying several buildings.
Homeowners should prepare their property to minimise damage, and be aware of insurance rules on how to claim following any issues caused by a storm.
A ‘lightning certificate’ is often required by insurers.
