Flash flood and Debris flood in the Var (France), 15th June 2010

25 people have been killed by flash flood in south-eastern France on 15th June 2010. Typical torrential rainfall called “cévenol” hit the mountains above the Cote D'Azur region. This very intense and exceptional storm has particularly affected the department of the Var: around 400 mm fell on the region of Les Arcs, and more than 300 mm during 12 hours. Other departments have been hit: Bouche du Rhône, Vaucluse, Gard… with a total amount of precipitation of 100mm.

This intensive rainfall has caused many floods in the river network of the region. The Nartuby river (crossing Draguignan city) has generated an historical flood; according to the local authorities, the floods are the worst in the region since 1827. The Real stream (crossing Les Arcs) has also been responsible for an important debris flow wiping out everything in its path.

About 2,000 rescue workers have been drafted into affected regions near the Mediterranean coast to help those trapped in their vehicles or houses. 1400 persons have been saved by helicopter, and 200 by boat. Rescue teams had also to moved 436 inmates from a prison in Draguignan after two floors flooded. Rail and air services in the region were interrupted, and about 300 passengers travelling on a high-speed train between Nice and Lille had been trapped by the flood waters.

Unfortunately, 25 peoples died during this storm, 11 for the only city of Draguignan. Most of the victims are old persons that have been surprised by the fast water rise. Indeed, rivers have rapidly overflowed and the level has risen of 50 cm in few minutes. In some houses, the first floor was completely flooded (until 2,5 meters). The force of the water swept empty cars and other vehicles down streets in the different communities.

Despite Meteo France (the French Meteorological Agency in charge of rainfall forecast) delivered a warning of important rainfall on the 14th June, the human and material casualties are dramatic. It demonstrates that an important effort has to be made to improve flood forecasting, and public communication and prevention.

PHOTOS

VIDEOS