France remains on high alert as four departments continue under a rare red weather warning on Wednesday, with Storm Pedro unleashing further heavy rainfall, swollen rivers, and widespread flooding across parts of the country. The national meteorological agency, Météo‑France, said the situation “remains dangerous and evolving,” urging residents in the affected regions to avoid travel and follow emergency instructions.
The departments still under red alert — the highest level in France’s four‑tier warning system — include Pas‑de‑Calais, Nord, Somme, and Aisne, where saturated ground and overflowing waterways have pushed local infrastructure to breaking point. Several neighbouring departments remain on orange alert, signalling continued risk of flooding, strong winds, and hazardous conditions.
Communities Already Hit Face Renewed Threat
Storm Pedro arrived as many communities were still recovering from earlier winter storms. Continuous rainfall over the past 48 hours has caused rivers such as the Somme and the Lys to rise sharply, breaching embankments in some areas and prompting emergency evacuations.
Local authorities reported dozens of roads cut off, schools closed, and public transport disrupted. In Pas‑de‑Calais, firefighters carried out multiple overnight rescues as water levels climbed rapidly in low‑lying neighbourhoods.
“We are dealing with a cumulative crisis,” said a regional emergency coordinator. “The soil is saturated, drainage systems are overwhelmed, and even moderate rainfall now leads to immediate flooding.”
Government Mobilises National Resources
Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin confirmed that hundreds of firefighters, civil security units, and military personnel have been deployed to reinforce local teams. Pumps, temporary barriers, and rescue boats have been positioned in the most vulnerable zones.
Prime Minister Gabriel Attal said the government is “fully mobilised” and pledged support for affected families and businesses. He also warned that flood risks could persist for several days, even after the heaviest rainfall moves eastward.
Residents Urged to Stay Vigilant
Authorities have repeatedly urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from riverbanks, and monitor official updates. Emergency shelters have been opened in several towns, and local mayors have activated crisis units to coordinate relief efforts.
Meteorologists say Storm Pedro is expected to weaken gradually, but additional rainfall is forecast, which could prolong flooding in the north and northeast.
A Winter of Repeated Weather Extremes
France has faced a series of severe weather events this winter, with multiple storms bringing record rainfall and widespread flooding. Climate specialists note that warmer air masses hold more moisture, increasing the likelihood of intense rainfall episodes.
For now, emergency services remain on high alert as the country braces for the next phase of Storm Pedro’s impact.
