Storm Amy is sweeping across the British Isles, but its impact won’t stop there: France will also feel its effects. Expected this weekend, it is likely to unleash strong gusts and place several departments under an orange wind alert. This isn’t a hurricane, but the atmospheric setup raises concerns for winds of roughly 62-75 mph along the English Channel coast… and up to about 56-68 mph inland, with gusts reaching as high as 81 mph in places.
Six départements du nord de la France, notamment le Nord, le Pas-de-Calais, la Somme, l’Aisne, l’Oise et la Seine-Maritime, sont déjà placés en alerte orange à partir d’aujourd’hui. L’épisode est prévu pour durer jusqu’en début de soirée, avec une atténuation progressive des vents. Pour les habitants du nord et des côtes, mieux vaut se préparer !
What to Expect: Intensity, Areas Affected, and the Peak Moment of Storm Amy
Along the Channel coast, gusts could climb to about 62-75 mph, with locally up to around 81 mph. Inland, winds will be somewhat less brutal but still impressive. Expect gusts of roughly 56-68 mph, potentially up to about 70 mph depending on the area. By midday, the southwest wind will strengthen, with possible thunderstorm bands in some zones.
The departments of the Nord, the Pas-de-Calais, the Somme, the Aisne, the Oise, and the Seine-Maritime are under orange wind alerts. Other northern areas are placed under precautionary yellow alerts. The storm’s strongest impact will hit the coasts, but wind effects will spill further inland as well.
What Precautions and Best Practices to Follow
For the general public, the watchword is: exercise caution. Close and lock windows, and make sure any objects around your home are secured or brought inside. Do not leave anything that could blow away. On the roads, gusts from Storm Amy can catch you off guard, especially on exposed routes or in rural stretches.
Avoid going out unless absolutely necessary, particularly near the coast or in wooded areas. If you must travel, keep an eye out for hazards such as fallen trees and weakened utility poles… For coastal enthusiasts, it’s best to steer clear of seawalls or seaside promenades during the peak wind periods. Finally, stay tuned to weather updates (radio, apps, official websites): conditions can change quickly.
Storm Amy won’t go unnoticed. Even though France isn’t at the heart of the tropical phenomenon, the remnants of this depression will generate significant winds, especially in the north and along the English Channel coast. In fact, the affected departments are already under orange alerts.
This episode serves as a reminder that powerful wind, even a “classic” one, can be dangerous. It’s wise to prepare ahead, secure belongings, limit risky travel, and stay informed!
