Heavy Storms Shake Down Southwest France, Claim Multiple Lives
On Thursday (Oct 15) a deluge of rain slammed the Aude department, home to the historic fortress Carcassonne. The steamy showers triggered floods, wrecked roads, and in the end, at least six people lost their lives. Experts say it was one of the most serious weather events France has seen in a century.
Where the Damage Was Heaviest
- Villardonnel – A woman was swept away by sudden rising water.
- Villegailhenc – Four residents drowned overnight.
- Another fatality reported in the Aude but details remain scarce.
The local river peaked at levels unseen in 100 years, according to Vigicrues, France’s flood‑monitoring agency.
Casualties and Chaos
- In Cuxac, a house collapsed, injuring one person.
- Firefighters answered more than 250 calls overnight (160–180 mm of rain, roughly 6–7 inches).
As a result of the storm:
- Roads north of Carcassonne were completely closed.
- All schools shut down.
- In Conques, streets swelled with up to two metres of water – a true water‑world.
Besides the Aude, six other departments—ranging from the foothills of the eastern Pyrenees to the heart of Aveyron—also endured heavy rains and flooding.
What’s Next?
Emergency crews are still working on clearing debris, re‑establishing road access, and ensuring that communities can rebuild. Residents are urged to stay put and follow updates from local authorities.
