Storm Bert Causes Record Winds and Disruptions in Lyon
Storm Bert has swept through the Lyon region, causing significant disruptions and record-breaking wind gusts. The Rhône department, along with its neighbor Loire, was placed on orange alert as winds reached unprecedented speeds for November. The Bron station recorded gusts of 125 km/h, nearly matching the historic record of 126 km/h from October 1987. In nearby Saint-Chamond, winds peaked at 141 km/h, marking one of the strongest storms in recent memory.
The storm's impact was felt across the region, with uprooted trees reported throughout Lyon. The Rhône firefighters responded to numerous incidents, conducting over a hundred interventions by midday. Fortunately, there have been no serious injuries reported. However, the storm caused significant property damage, with fallen trees blocking roads and damaging vehicles, particularly in areas like Décines-Charpieu and Parilly Park.
Transportation Disruptions and Safety Measures
In response to the severe weather, the SNCF canceled most TER trains in the region, affecting routes such as Lyon-Saint-Étienne. Tram services were also disrupted due to fallen branches on the tracks. The Lyon metropolitan area advised residents to exercise caution, especially cyclists, as conditions remained hazardous.
Public spaces were closed for safety, including large parks, cemeteries, and the Christmas market at Place Carnot. The OL Vallée shopping center also shut its doors, and the Beltrame high school in Meyzieu was closed for the afternoon. As the storm begins to subside, Météo France predicts that wind speeds will decrease throughout the afternoon, providing some relief to the affected areas.
