France hit by more than 35 days of rain | Floods News
France Experiences Record Streak of Rainfall Amid Flood Warnings
Published February 19, 2026
France is currently enduring an unprecedented streak of rainfall, with the national weather service, Meteo-France, reporting more than 35 consecutive days of rain. This marks the longest period of rainfall since record-keeping began in 1959, surpassing the previous record set in 2023.
In response to the ongoing weather conditions, four departments in western France have been placed under a red alert due to significant flood risks. Officials anticipate worsening conditions with the anticipated arrival of Storm Pedro, which is expected to impact large areas of Western Europe.
Lucie Chadourne-Facon, director of the flood alert service Vigicrues, stated that the incoming rainfall could exacerbate existing flooding conditions.
In Bordeaux, Mayor Pierre Hurmic activated the city’s emergency plan for the first time since the devastating floods of 1999.
Additionally, senior official Francois Pesneau reported that a man went missing in Chalonnes-sur-Loire after his canoe capsized on Tuesday evening.
Nine departments have received an orange alert, indicating a serious weather threat.
Chadourne-Facon noted that while drier weather is expected to arrive by Friday, the cessation of rain does not guarantee an end to the flooding crisis.
