Deadly Floods Hit French Riviera: Three Lives Lost Amid Severe Storms

The recent heavy rains in southern France have led to severe flooding, fatalities, and extensive damage, particularly in Le Lavandou and Vidauban, where rescue efforts continue amidst ongoing emergencies.

At least three individuals have tragically lost their lives due to severe flooding caused by intense rainfall and storms that have impacted southern France since Monday. Authorities reported that an elderly couple perished in the coastal town of Le Lavandou, while another victim died trapped inside a vehicle in Vidauban. The torrential rain has resulted in widespread destruction, with streets flooded and numerous homes experiencing power and water outages.

The couple, who attempted to evacuate their residence, were swept away by the floodwaters that rose unexpectedly, as revealed by the Toulon public prosecutor. An investigation has commenced into the circumstances surrounding their deaths. Local officials expressed their disbelief at the extent of the disaster, particularly in the Cavalière district, which received an astonishing 256mm of rain within a single hour. Mayor Gil Bernardi described the chaos, noting that roads had been uprooted and bridges destroyed.

The impact of the flooding left Le Lavandou facing continued electricity and water shortages, with access to the town severely limited due to ongoing inundation of the main road. In Vidauban, the area's mayor reported that one person died when a vehicle drove onto a submerged road, falling into a ditch. A bystander attempted to rescue both individuals but was only successful in saving the driver.

In the past 24 hours, emergency services received over 500 calls in the Var region, prompting the deployment of hundreds of rescuers from neighboring cities, including Cannes. Though Var experienced severe weather warnings for thunderstorms and flooding, these alerts were later reduced to the lowest level. As a result of the deluge, over 600 homes remained without power, and significant disruptions affected the Bordeaux-Toulouse railway line, canceling services for the coming days.