Essential Guides & Advice Flooding In The Languedoc Region

Date Published:

05/06/2009

If you’re thinking of buying in the Languedoc region of France, it's essential to check that the properties aren’t built in a flood risk area.

Flooding can be a serious problem in France and in particular in the Languedoc region. It is vital that all prospective home buyers are aware of flood zones, of the legal obligations that exist for vendors, and the steps one can take to protect oneself from buying a dream property which turns into a river bed once or twice a year! This guide should help you to avoid that particular pitfall.

There has been serious flooding in the Gard and Hérault in 1988, 1998, 1999, 2002, 2003 and most recently in 2005. Since the most recent floods, the realisation is dawning on many in the region that this is becoming something of an annual occurrence. Regional authorities are continuing to assess prevention measures and plan for better defences.

The French Weather Broadcast (The Météo) displays a colour graded public warning system called “La Carte de Vigilence” (The Warning Map) to help residents take protective measures against storms. The “Carte de Vigilence” can be accessed directly on the top right hand corner of the French Météo website and is announced on the local radio. Red Alert - is defined by the expectation that 12 inches (300 mm) of rain are forecast to fall that day.