Intense thunderstorms and high winds are expected across the region on Wednesday 4th and Thursday 5th September, leading Météo France to issue an orange weather alert for the Alpes-Maritimes and the Var. Monaco is also likely to be affected by the stormy conditions.
The Côte d’Azur is bracing itself for a major storm following predictions of widespread thunderstorms, heavy rainfall and winds of up to 100kmph for the night between Wednesday 4th and Thursday 5th September.
Météo France has issued an orange storm alert for the departments of the Alpes-Maritimes, which surrounds the Principality of Monaco on three sides, and the Var, warning that up to 120mm of rain – or more – should be anticipated in certain parts of the Riviera.
“Strong storms, accompanied by very heavy precipitation in a short time, hail, gusts and significant electrical activity, are expected,” reads a communiqué released by Météo France in advance of the incoming storms. “In particular, a very intense line of storms should sweep these regions towards the middle of the night or in the second part of the night. The [weather] will improve from Thursday morning.”
The orange alert will be in place from 6pm in the Var and from 9pm in the Alpes-Maritimes. It will remain active until 6am on the morning of Thursday 5th September.
STAYING SAFE
During conditions such as these, it is possible that residents could experience power cuts, damage to property, road closures and loss of telephone service, meaning that preparation is key.
Local authorities are seeking to remind residents of essential personal safety measures. It goes without saying that people should remain indoors during the worst of the weather, as well as bring pets inside. Any loose objects kept outside, such as garden furniture, should be secured to prevent them from causing any damage when the winds arrive.
It is also recommended that residents ensure that they have fresh water supplies, adequate food stores and a first aid kit on hand.
Staying off the roads is also extremely important in storms of this magnitude due to the threat of flash floods. It only takes 30cm of water to carry a vehicle off the road. Reduced visibility is also a by-product of a major weather event, as are submerged objects and land or mudslides, all of which are dangerous on the roads and at home.
For further information on the storm as it develops, click here.
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