Floods in Brittany: Red Alert Maintained, New Flooding Expected

Brittany remains under close watch as exceptional floods continue to affect Ille-et-Vilaine, Morbihan, and Loire-Atlantique. Météo-France has kept these three departments under red flood alert, while Sarthe has now been placed under an orange alert. Following storms Eowyn and Herminia, a new depression, named Ivo, is sweeping across western France, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds, which could further worsen the situation.

Rivers Under Pressure and More Flooding Expected

Authorities are particularly concerned about the Oust and lower Vilaine rivers, which are already flooded, with further rising water levels expected. According to Vigicrues, although water levels have slightly begun to recede in some areas, the upcoming rainfall could push them higher again. The Vilaine, currently experiencing an “exceptional” flood, is expected to remain at its peak for at least another 24 hours. Rennes Métropole has warned that the impact could be even greater than what was seen last weekend.

In Redon, one of the most closely monitored areas, several schools will remain closed until Friday. Water levels recorded on the Nantes-Brest Canal and the Vilaine River are reminiscent of historic floods, particularly those of 1995 and 1936.

The State Initiates an Accelerated Procedure

Given the severity of the situation, François-Noël Buffet, Minister Delegate to the Minister of the Interior, announced on Tuesday in Rennes the activation of an accelerated procedure for the recognition of a state of natural disaster. This measure will allow affected residents to receive compensation more quickly.

15,000 People Affected in Rennes

In the Breton capital, authorities are implementing multiple measures to help residents protect themselves. Concrete blocks are being distributed to elevate furniture, parking is free to allow people to secure their vehicles, and public lighting is being maintained in high-risk areas to facilitate potential evacuations. According to city officials, approximately 15,000 people have been affected by the floods, with a hundred homes and several apartment buildings damaged.

Safety Guidelines and Maximum Caution

Prefectures are reminding residents of essential safety measures in this critical situation:
Stay indoors and keep yourself informed.
Do not drive or walk on flooded roads, even partially submerged ones.
Follow restrictions and official instructions.
Stay away from rivers and seek higher ground if necessary.

With depression Ivo continuing to bring heavy rainfall, caution remains crucial in the coming hours and days.