Storm Ciaran is preparing to hit the north-western quarter of France head-on, with wind gusts reaching 170 km/h. Météo-France has already placed three departments on red alert, namely Finistère, Côtes-d’Armor and Manche. This storm is forecast to be of remarkable intensity, comparable to that of 1999 which caused significant damage.
Faced with this threat, the authorities are mobilized to guarantee the safety of the population. No less than 3,200 firefighters will be deployed in six departments, notably in Brittany and Hauts-de-France, in order to deal with possible emergency situations. The risks of submersion and large waves are also taken into account in the warning systems.
In anticipation of the storm, SNCF had to interrupt some of its services, notably TER lines in the regions concerned. The TGVs will operate with restrictions, avoiding certain intermediate stations. Brest airport will also be closed for the duration of the storm.
Forecasts predict wind gusts of up to 170 km/h, mainly in coastal areas. Météo-France emphasizes, however, that uncertainties remain as to the real intensity of the gusts. Orange vigilance is still extended to several departments in the northwest of the country, which could be affected by these violent winds.
Faced with this situation, local authorities are calling on the population to exercise caution and recommend limiting their travel during the storm period. It is also advisable to secure external objects that could become projectiles and to remain vigilant in coastal areas likely to be affected by submersion waves.
In short, Storm Ciaran promises to be a major meteorological event for the north-western quarter of France. The authorities are mobilized to deal with possible emergency situations and the population is called upon to take the necessary precautions to guarantee their safety.