Météo France issues orange wind warning in southeast
Météo France has issued an orange violent wind alert for the Alpes-Maritimes and the Var departments, as well as for Corsica, with gusts of over 200kph expected.
The four departments are expected to be on alert until at least 16h today (Wednesday January 17), with Météo France warning that the wind will reach similar levels to those seen during Storm Eleanor on January 3 and 4.
The wind in the north-west of the Var and Alpes-Maritimes will reach speeds only seen “around once per year”, according to the forecaster, reaching up to 150kph.
Corsica will be even more affected, with winds of over 225kph expected around Cap Corse and winds of between 127-198kph everywhere else, including 150kph in the capital Bastia, and even higher next to the coastlines.
The weather comes as the ground in Corsica still remains relatively dry after the destructive fires of the summer 2017, with authorities fearing further fires that could be spread quickly by the high winds should they take hold.
Over 350 firefighters were on standby last night in Corsica as the wind speeds increased, on alert for any fires that could escalate, reported FranceInfo today.
High waves are also expected on the coast, however, and people are asked to be very cautious about entering the water or walking near the beach, as there is a risk of flooding and waves that could submerge usually-clear areas.
Homeowners are asked to clear away any outside debris or furniture that could blow away in the wind, and pedestrians are advised to watch out for flying objects, and falling branches or trees.
