Severe Weather Alert: Storms and Heavy Rain Across France and Germany
The weather across France and Germany is facing significant turbulence this week, with severe storms and heavy rainfall predicted in multiple regions. Météo France has placed 76 departments on yellow alert (level 2 out of 4) due to the imminent storms. The alert affects the entire northern part of France, particularly the areas between Gironde and Var.
In the morning hours, the sky remains generally gray with occasional rain, and isolated storms may form over eastern reliefs and near the Aquitaine coasts and northern Brittany. As midday approaches, storm cells will multiply, leading to increased showers, which are often accompanied by thunderstorms and sometimes hail. The most affected areas stretch from Brittany to the Belgian border and from the north-east of France to Auvergne Rhône-Alpes and the north of Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
Tornado Risks in France
The French observatory Keraunos highlights that regions in the south of the Alps and north-eastern quarter of France are at particular risk of supercell thunderstorms, which are the most powerful type of thunderstorms. This could result in gusts reaching 70 km/h. The tornado risk remains especially high in the northern regions and the Rhône valley. However, conditions are expected to gradually improve from Aquitaine by the end of the day.
Meanwhile, in Germany, a similar weather pattern is developing, particularly in Bavaria. The German Weather Service (DWD) has warned of severe thunderstorms and heavy rain from midday to late evening. Up to 40 liters of rain per square meter may fall in some areas, which could lead to landslides and floods.
Severe Weather Projections for Bavaria
The DWD reports that a new low-pressure zone over Germany will increase the risk of severe weather. Areas from southeast and eastern Bavaria through Hesse to northern Rhineland-Palatinate and North Rhine-Westphalia could see strong thunderstorms. Hail and squalls reaching 70 km/h are also possible. The severe weather risk extends into early Wednesday morning, with heavy rain shifting towards northeast Germany by night.
Bavaria is expected to face severe thunderstorms with potential small-grain hail and gusts of around 75 km/h. Rainfall could peak at 40 liters per square meter in a short span, or between 40 and 80 liters per square meter in a few hours. The regions of Lower Bavaria and Lower Franconia are noted as particularly at risk.
Although Monday weather remains relatively calm, isolated thunderstorms in the Alps can bring heavy rain, hail, and squalls. As Tuesday progresses, thunderstorms accompanied by heavy rain will spread from the south, especially affecting the Allgäu region.
- The German Weather Service has issued comprehensive warnings and preliminary storm information to keep residents informed. Specific regions such as the Eifel, central Hesse, southeast Bavaria, and northern Rhineland-Palatinate are under close watch for severe weather developments.
- Temperature changes are also expected, with a slight drop from Tuesday to Wednesday. Maximum temperatures will range from 18 to 26 degrees Celsius, dropping further to 17 to 21 degrees by Wednesday. Residents are advised to stay updated with the latest weather advisories and take necessary precautions against potential storm-related hazards.
