Hurricane Kirk set to hit France: which areas are at risk?

A powerful Atlantic hurricane is heading to Europe this week, bringing heavy rainfall and winds of up to 130 km/h. 

The hurricane, dubbed Kirk by meteorological authorities, is currently forming in the Atlantic ocean and moving eastwards towards Europe. 

It is expected to arrive in Europe on Wednesday morning (October 9) and last until Thursday (October 10) afternoon.

Its exact course is not known, however it is predicted to hit the UK and France with the eye of the storm being close to – or running through – the English Channel.

Some forecasts see the hurricane swing northwards over northern England and Scotland, avoiding central France, but others see it push through France’s western coastline, near Bordeaux, further into the country.

"A large part of France will be exposed on Wednesday and Thursday" to the storm, said weather forecaster La Chaîne Météo, providing the storm's current trajectory does not shift.

Where will Hurricane Kirk hit?

If it follows the path currently predicted, the north-west of France is expected to face the brunt of the harsh weather, particularly Brittany and the Pays de la Loire regions. 

If it passes through the Channel, Normandy will also be affected by heavy rainfall, particularly along the coast. 

Rain and strong winds are likely reach into central France and up to the Belgian border over the course of Wednesday night and Thursday. 

Gales will be stronger in the coastal areas but may still reach up to 100 km/h inland depending on exactly where the hurricane hits. 

Heavy rain is also forecast, however coastal flooding is thought unlikely as the hurricane is not expected to stir up strong waves along the French coast. 

Some areas may be at risk of flash flooding or river flooding, however, as a wet 2024 has left many soils saturated. 

Read more: Storms in France: what to do if at home, out walking or in car