Flooding in France: Rennes Experiences Worst Levels in 40 Years
Rennes, France is grappling with the aftermath of severe flooding, described by local officials as the worst in four decades. The flooding, triggered by Storm Herminia and exacerbated by ongoing rainfall, has led to evacuations and significant disruption across the Ille-et-Vilaine region.
As of , authorities were anticipating stabilization of floodwaters, but concerns remained for the town of Redon, where water levels continued to rise. The Vilaine River in Redon had already reached 4.66 meters (15.3 feet) and was projected to potentially reach a historic high of 5.35 meters (17.6 feet), last recorded in .
Storm Herminia initially struck Normandy and Brittany beginning on , causing widespread flooding, evacuations and school closures. Tragically, the storm has resulted in at least two fatalities. Nearly 400 residents in Rennes were evacuated as a precautionary measure, according to the city’s mayor.
Residents impacted by the flooding described harrowing conditions. “We no longer have heating or electricity. We woke up with water up to our hips,” recounted Bakari, Moussa, and Kena, three young workers who were forced to escape their flooded home through a window and seek shelter at a local kebab shop to charge their phones.
Water levels in the Vilaine River basin have reached or exceeded levels previously recorded in . In Guichen, the river matched the levels, while in Guipry-Messac, the record was surpassed by 20 centimeters (7.9 inches). Eaux et Vilaine, the public territorial authority for the Vilaine basin, is closely monitoring the situation.
The situation remains precarious as another storm, Ivo, is forecast to bring gale-force winds of 80–100 km/h (50–62 mph) and moderate rainfall to Brittany beginning on , potentially worsening the existing flood conditions.
The flooding extends beyond Rennes, with reports of villages submerged and roads rendered impassable throughout France. The extent of the damage and the full impact of the storms are still being assessed.
