Severe flooding impacts the Ille-et-Vilaine region of France as torrential rains from storm Éowyn continue to wreak havoc this weekend. The department has been placed under orange alert for flood risks and yellow alert for rain and flooding, particularly affecting areas around Rennes.
The alerts were prompted by significant rainfall cumulatively recorded from January 24, 2025, and the preceding weeks. These rains came on top of already saturated soils, following previous downpours earlier this month, causing waterways to exceed their banks.
"Les niveaux sont à la hausse," warned Vigicrues, indicating rising water levels across several basins, including the Meu and Ille-Illet. Local authorities are on high alert as they monitor the water levels, anticipating continued precipitation over the next few days.
On January 25, 2025, the flooding situation worsened considerably. Several major routes have been closed, including parts of the RN24, which connects Rennes to Lorient, creating significant travel disruptions. Emergency services are actively evacuaying residents from areas most impacted by the floodwaters, responding to calls from concerned citizens. "Cette nuit, les pompiers s’attendent à être très sollicités," reported local news source Le Télégramme.
Residents have shared their fears and observations as flood conditions continue to evolve. One such resident, Marlène, expressed alarm: "C’est impressionnant. Beaucoup de Rennais prennent des photos. Nous avons peur pour nos habitations," highlighting both the spectacle of the flooding and the genuine concern for property safety.
Another local, Nathan from Pacé, echoed this sentiment with his own disbelief at the situation, stating, "Je n’ai jamais vu ça." Statements like these reflect the gravity of the situation as communities react and prepare for potential worst-case scenarios.
Efforts to restore some order have led the city of Rennes to activate its community emergency plan. "Une cellule de crise est mise en place pour suivre les évolutions de la situation," stated officials from the Rennes mayoral office. This proactive measure indicates the severity with which local leaders view the flooding crisis.
Emergency responders are particularly vigilant about the condition of the Ille and Meu rivers, where water levels are nearing those of past historical floods. Reports suggest water levels might surpass the records set by the floods of 2000 and are inching closer to the floods of 1981.
The city is bracing for more rains predicted later this weekend, compounding the already precarious situation. Authorities are urging citizens to heed warnings, stay updated through Météo France and Vigicrues, and avoid any unnecessary travel or efforts to navigate flooded areas.
Calls for vigilance have become increasingly urgent as local officials and emergency services work to keep residents safe. The combination of heavy rainfall and saturated grounds across the region is creating conditions ripe for flooding.
Weather forecasters with Météo-France continue to monitor the situation closely, with alerts for persistent rain and flooding remaining active as the situation develops. The hope is for the community to weather yet another storm and emerge safely.
With the forecast uncertain and the storms intensifying, the communities of Ille-et-Vilaine, particularly Rennes, stand united, preparing for both the immediate threats of flooding and the longer task of recovery once the waters recede.