Storm Ciaran is preparing to hit the north-western quarter of France with gusts of up to 170 km/h. Météo-France placed three Breton departments on orange alert from Wednesday evening: Finistère, Morbihan and Côtes-d’Armor. With an intensity comparable to that of the 1999 storm, this fall storm is considered very strong. The impacts will not only be violent winds, but also subsidence waves and risks of submersion on the Atlantic coast and the English Channel.
Faced with this situation, the authorities are actively preparing. Nearly 3,200 firefighters will be mobilized in the affected departments, particularly in Brittany, Manche and Loire-Atlantique. Precautions are also being taken in terms of transport: the SNCF has suspended TER lines in several affected regions, while Brest airport will be closed for the duration of the storm.
The population is also called to be vigilant. It is recommended to limit travel during the storm period, put away objects that could be blown away by gusts of wind and exercise caution near coastal areas. Prefectures warn of the risks of falling trees and branches, as well as possible damage to infrastructure.
This Ciaran storm reminds us of the importance of preparing for the climatic hazards of autumn, which can be particularly violent in Brittany and the north-west of France. It is essential to take the necessary measures to ensure your safety and that of your loved ones.