Orange Rain and Flood Warning Issued for Aude and Pyrénées-Orientales

Météo-France has placed the Aude and Pyrénées-Orientales departments under an orange rain and flood warning in anticipation of heavy rainfall expected on Sunday across both departments in southern France.

According to the meteorological agency's forecasts, rainfall could reach up to 80 millimetres in just a few hours, with total accumulations locally climbing to between 150 and 180 millimetres over the course of the entire day. These volumes of water falling within a short period raise concerns about runoff and flash floods in the most exposed areas.

Local authorities are urging caution, particularly regarding travel and movement in areas likely to be affected by rapid flooding. This type of intense rainfall is not unprecedented in this region of southern France, which regularly faces Mediterranean weather events capable of triggering flash floods.

Residents in the affected areas are advised to follow updates via Météo-France bulletins and to stay informed of instructions from local prefectural authorities should weather conditions worsen.

The orange warning remains in effect for Sunday, and emergency services are standing by to intervene if needed in the areas most exposed to flood and runoff risks.