Storm Nils brought sustained winds of 141 km/h to Cap Ferret, in the Gironde department of France, on Thursday, February 12, 2026, with gusts reaching 119 km/h in Bordeaux, according to initial reports.
The storm, forecast to impact the region between Tuesday, February 10th and Thursday, February 12th, has prompted warnings for residents of Bordeaux, the Arcachon Basin, and the Gironde coastline to exercise extreme caution. Authorities anticipate the strongest gusts will occur Thursday morning.
A strong swell is similarly building along the Atlantic coast and the Arcachon Basin, with potentially large waves impacting beaches. The sectors of Cap Ferret, Lacanau, and Verdon-sur-Mer are expected to be particularly vulnerable. All nautical activities and shoreline access are being discouraged.
Cap Ferret, a peninsula west of Bordeaux, is known for its oyster farms and relaxed atmosphere. While often compared to the Hamptons, the area maintains a more natural and untamed character, according to recent reports. The local architecture frequently features traditional white wooden “cabane style” buildings.
The storm’s arrival comes as the region prepares for potentially disruptive conditions, with residents advised to secure property and avoid unnecessary travel. The latest forecasts indicate that wind speeds in Bordeaux could reach 90-100 km/h during the peak of the storm, with similar gusts expected across the Arcachon Basin, the Médoc, and the southern Gironde.
While the storm is expected to subside later on Thursday, authorities have not yet issued a timeline for the lifting of warnings or a full assessment of potential damage. The situation remains fluid, and residents are urged to monitor official updates.
