The Prefect of the Alpes-Maritimes has announced the closure of all schools and nurseries on Thursday 17th October, in response to an orange weather warning for heavy rain and thunderstorms. Schools in Monaco will remain open. 

The decision in the nearby French department is aimed at minimising movement and traffic during what is expected to be the most intense period of the weather event, which coincides with school leaving hours.

All nurseries, except hospital nurseries, as well as primary schools, secondary schools, and high schools (including BTS classes) will remain closed for the entire day. Universities have been left to decide independently about closures. The authorities have stressed that the move is necessary to ensure public safety as the risk of flash floods and overflowing rivers is high, particularly in the afternoon when the storm is expected to peak.

There are also concerns that certain roads in the department could become impassable due to flooding, further complicating travel in the region.

The Prince’s Government has decided to keep the Principality’s daycare centers and schools open, while recommending that parents of students and anyone residing outside Monaco follow the recommendations by the Alpes-Maritimes Prefecture regarding travel. Any absence on Thursday will not be penalised.

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