Environment

Continuous rain expected in Brittany, flood risks rise

16:20

By: Sahili Aya

Continuous rain expected in Brittany, flood risks rise

Brittany, in northwestern France, is facing persistent rainfall that shows no signs of stopping, raising the risk of local flooding. The region’s soil, already saturated from weeks of continuous rain, is struggling to absorb additional precipitation, meteorologists warn.

“The issue is not just the rainfall itself, but the hydrological situation,” explains Cyrille Wust from Météo Consult. Waterlogged ground is unable to absorb new showers, leading to increased runoff and potential river overflows. Roads, underground parking, and basements may be affected if the rain continues.

Brittany is on the front line of these weather disturbances. Strong winds are expected alongside continued heavy rain, while inland regions such as central and eastern France are experiencing lighter precipitation. Southern Europe, particularly Spain and Portugal, is also affected by unstable weather, though eastern Europe remains relatively dry due to cold conditions.

Meteorologists attribute the situation to a strong and disrupted Atlantic jet stream, which carries humid air masses from the Gulf of Mexico toward Western Europe. “This jet stream is blocked, keeping clouds and rainfall over the region,” Wust notes. The unusual duration of this pattern—over two weeks—makes the situation exceptional, with rain totals well above seasonal averages.

Authorities advise caution during strong winds and high seas, recommending that residents avoid exposed coastal areas and seek higher ground in case of flooding. This rainy pattern is expected to continue at least until the end of next week.