Three departments in western France – Loire-Atlantique, Charente-Maritime, and Maine-et-Loire – remain under red alert for flooding as of Monday, February 23, 2026, according to Météo-France. The alert, initially issued on February 22nd, has been extended due to persistent high water levels and the risk of “major” flooding.
Alongside the red alerts, three additional departments – Sarthe, Vendée, and Charente – are currently at orange alert level for flooding. This signifies a risk of significant overflows with potential impacts on public life and property. Vigicrues, the national flood monitoring service, reported earlier today that four river sections are at red alert, six at orange, and eighty-one at yellow, indicating widespread elevated flood risk across the country.
Météo-France stated that the prolonged vigilance is necessary even in the absence of further rainfall. The agency warned that the current situation poses a direct and widespread threat to the safety of people and property. Potential consequences of red alert status include widespread and significant damage to homes and infrastructure, disruptions to road and rail transport, and potential power outages.
In the Isère department, approximately sixty residents of the Rivier d’Allemont hamlet were being evacuated by helicopter after being cut off by a significant avalanche. The road access to the hamlet remains blocked.
Vigicrues defines a red alert as indicating a “major flood risk,” with a “direct and widespread threat to the safety of people and property.” An orange alert signifies a risk of “significant overflows” that could have a substantial impact on daily life and safety. The service produces updated information at least twice daily, at 10:00 and 16:00 local time.
Météo-France advises individuals in affected areas to close doors and windows, avoid travel, and remain indoors. The agency also recommends staying informed through official channels. The next vigilance map update is scheduled for 06:00 on Tuesday, February 24th.
