The department of Morbihan is bracing for the impact of Storm Eowyn, which has been designated as a significant weather event by Météo-France. Starting at 6 PM on January 24, 2025, the region will enter a phase of orange vigilance for rain and flooding, expected to last until midnight. This weather warning highlights the imminent threat of heavy rainfall across the area.
According to Météo-France, "The first rains have reached Brittany late this night, but the event has not yet truly begun, particularly on Morbihan." The storm, which is currently moving across Ireland, is forecasted to bring sustained and occasionally intense rainfall to the region, especially this evening when the disturbance is expected to reactivate.
Residents of Morbihan are alerted to anticipate rainfall totals between 20 and 40 mm, with some areas potentially receiving up to 50 mm during this wet episode. "The heaviest rains are expected to cease around midnight," Météo-France indicated. This is particularly concerning, as the already saturated ground conditions could lead to significant flooding.
This warning is echoed by local concerns over potential flooding as community members voice their fears on platforms like Infoclimat. One resident noted, “After a brief calm, moderate rains are starting again. The satellite images don’t look good. Overflowing ditches are frequent with the grounds saturated, caution is advised.”
The situation looks dire elsewhere across the seas; Storm Eowyn has wreaked havoc on Ireland, where wind gusts have reached unprecedented speeds of 184 km/h, marking it as one of the strongest storms to hit the region. More than 800,000 households were left without power this morning due to the extensive damage caused by the wind and accompanying rain. Reports highlight the urgency as the storm moves toward Scotland.
Back to Morbihan, the prefecture has urged residents to heed safety precautions, especially for those living near traditionally flood-prone areas. Advice includes securing valuables and closely monitoring local water levels. “Do not engage on any submerged roads,” cautioned the local authorities, reflecting the risks associated with the impending storm surge.
The prefecture has reiterated the importance of vigilance as the region prepares for the anticipated rain. "This is a usual wet episode for the season," says Météo-France, “but it necessitates extraordinary caution due to saturated soils." The storm's evolution continues to be monitored, with possible extensions of the vigilance alert to additional departments based on the rainfall’s intensity.
While Morbihan may not be facing the brunt of Eowyn compared to the devastation observed across the UK, the situation is still pressing. Already, Vannes-Meucon and Plouay have reported significant rain accumulation within their areas. This rainfall will likely escalate this evening, underscoring the need for prepared action among the residents.
Storm Eowyn serves as yet another reminder of the unpredictable nature of winter weather and the need for continued vigilance and preparedness as communities grapple with storm impacts. With the storm set to affect Morbihan tonight, local authorities remain on high alert as they navigate the challenges posed by both anticipated rainfall and existing saturation conditions.
Looking forward, as the community rallies to respond to the storm, the emphasis rests on cooperation, caution, and counsel from local weather services. Storm Eowyn might be recorded as another chapter of forceful winter storms affecting European regions, but careful monitoring and proactive measures may mitigate its impact on Morbihan's residents.