Storm Monica Claims Four Lives Across Southern France, Bouches-du-Rhône Flooding Fatal

A severe storm, designated Monica, has caused significant disruption and loss of life across several departments in southern France. Authorities confirm four deaths, including two women discovered drowned in a cellar within the Bouches-du-Rhône region. This area, along with Gard, Ardèche, and Var, experienced torrential rainfall and resultant flash flooding.

Reports indicate that one woman was found deceased in the town of Goudargues in Gard, where her vehicle was submerged. A fourth victim was recovered near her car in the village of Aspiran, Hérault. Search operations are ongoing, particularly in areas where individuals were reported missing after attempting to traverse flooded roads or becoming trapped by rising water levels.

More than 2,000 emergency personnel, comprising firefighters and gendarmes, were mobilised in Bouches-du-Rhône alone to address hundreds of call-outs. The intensity of the rainfall led to substantial road closures and disruption to local infrastructure. Further assessments of the storm's full impact and any additional casualties remain underway.