Severe storms are expected to sweep across southwestern France this weekend, particularly affecting regions such as Occitanie and Aquitaine. As meteorologists warn of intense weather conditions, residents are urged to prepare for potential hazards including hail, strong winds, and heavy rainfall.
According to Météo France, the weekend of May 10 and 11, 2025, will see a significant shift in weather patterns due to a cold drop forming over Spain and moving towards the Bay of Biscay. This shift is expected to bring instability and stormy conditions, with the first storms breaking out as early as Friday, May 9, 2025.
The towns of Labarthe-Rivière and Ardiège in Haute-Garonne recently experienced devastating flooding, highlighting the potential dangers of these storms. The meteorologist Yann Amice explained that a southeast wind will bring warmer air from North Africa, setting the stage for a stormy weekend.
On Saturday, May 10, the storms are anticipated to begin in the Hautes-Pyrénées around 5 PM, progressing eastward and northward throughout the evening. The storms are expected to be particularly strong in the southern slopes, with a risk of hail and wind gusts reaching up to 120 km/h.
In addition to the storms, there is a yellow alert in place for several departments including Hautes-Pyrénées, Pyrénées-Atlantiques, Landes, Haute-Garonne, and Gers. This alert indicates that the storms could be violent, with Météo France warning of “dangerous phenomena” expected over the weekend.
The risk period for storms in these regions is set from Saturday afternoon through Sunday morning, with potential rainfall exceeding 30 mm per hour in some areas. Residents are advised to avoid unnecessary travel during these times and secure outdoor items to prevent damage from high winds.
On Sunday, May 11, the storm risk will persist, affecting Toulouse and the western parts of Haute-Garonne, with heavy rainfall likely. The departments of Tarn, Ariège, Tarn-et-Garonne, and Aude are also expected to be significantly impacted.
As the weather continues to evolve, Météo France emphasizes the need for caution. The storms are expected to bring not just rain, but also strong electrical activity and the possibility of localized flooding. The peak intensity of the storms is predicted to occur between 5 PM and 10 PM on Saturday, May 10, 2025.
Authorities are taking precautions, mobilizing additional resources and warning residents to stay indoors during the height of the storms. In Charente, for instance, local officials are implementing enhanced monitoring and deploying extra personnel to ensure public safety.
In light of these warnings, residents are reminded to stay away from trees and metal structures during storms, and to avoid driving unless absolutely necessary. It is also advised to unplug sensitive electrical appliances and secure vehicles to minimize potential damage.
As the weekend approaches, the French public is urged to remain vigilant and prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions. The storms, while potentially dangerous, also serve as a reminder of the power of nature and the importance of being prepared.
For those in affected areas, it is crucial to stay informed through local weather updates and to heed any warnings issued by meteorological services. With the right precautions, communities can mitigate the risks associated with these severe weather events.
As the stormy weather unfolds, residents are encouraged to share their experiences and stay connected with local news sources for updates on the situation. The weekend promises to be a turbulent one, but with awareness and preparedness, safety can be prioritized.
In summary, the weekend forecast calls for a series of intense storms across southwestern France, particularly affecting Occitanie and Aquitaine. With warnings of hail, strong winds, and heavy rainfall, residents are advised to take necessary precautions and stay informed as the weather develops.
