The recent floods in central and southeast France underscore the intensifying challenges of extreme weather, marked by both excessive rainfall and extreme dry conditions. October 2024’s torrential rain affected much of the country, putting 33 French departments on orange alert and six on red alert for rain and flooding.

Understanding flood risks

Factors such as heavy rainfall, overflowing rivers, and coastal surges contribute to flooding. To assess individual flood risk, it is possible to consult local flood maps and historical weather data patterns. In France, French municipalities – or intercommunal organisations – are responsible for flood prevention measures.

Preparing for a flood

There are several steps you can take to prepare for flooding:

§  Prepare an emergency kit with essential items like waterproof clothes, non-perishable food, bottled water, necessary medications, portable mobile charger and a battery-powered radio. This kit could be a lifesaver if you’re unable to leave your home during a flood.

§  Keep  your phone fully charged. 112 is the most important emergency number to know, and operates throughout Europe.

Protecting your property before a flood

As well as preparing for the risk of a flood, there are some practical things you can do to reduce the damaging impact of flooding.

§  Consider purchasing flood gates to protect your property. If it’s safe to do so, close any flood gates and deploy sandbags to prevent water from entering your home.

§  If time permits, move valuable items like paperwork, important documents, and family photos to higher ground or upstairs.

§  Plug sinks and bathtubs and weigh them down if possible. Plugging sinks and bathtubs during a flood can help prevent sewage backup, reducing contamination risk.

§  To protect your curtains from water damage, tie them up or drape them over the curtain rail.

§  Before leaving your property, unplug electrical devices and turn off the gas, electricity, and water supply to your home.

What to do after a flood

In the unfortunate event of a flood in your property, AXA Marthon will be there to help you. For out of hours emergencies, please call 01 55 92 26 92 – this service is available 24/7 – and you can speak in English.

All AXA multi-risk home insurance packages cover you for natural disasters such as flooding and water damage, as well as fire and other risks. Please contact us for more information.

Insurance France is the trading name of AXA Marthon. We are an English and French speaking AXA agency, taking care of your insurance so you can enjoy your life in France.

To find out more please contact us below for a free, no-obligation quotation:

Phone: +33 (0)5 45 70 43 76

Email: agence.florentmorin@axa.fr

Website: insurancefrance.fr