EuroWire, PARIS: Storm Goretti swept across western and northern parts of France on Friday, leaving about 400,000 homes without electricity and causing widespread disruption to transport, public services and coastal infrastructure, according to French authorities and grid operators. The storm brought violent winds and heavy rain as it moved in from the Atlantic, with the strongest impact reported in the regions of Normandy and Brittany. France’s electricity distribution operator Enedis said the outages were caused mainly by fallen trees and damaged power lines, adding that thousands of technicians were deployed to restore supply as conditions allowed. By late Friday, restoration work was continuing across several departments.
Weather services reported wind gusts exceeding 200 kilometres per hour in exposed coastal areas of northwestern France, with one of the strongest readings recorded in the Manche department. Authorities issued high-level weather alerts, urging residents to limit travel and remain indoors as emergency crews worked to clear roads and secure damaged infrastructure.
Rail and road transport were significantly affected. The national rail operator suspended or reduced several regional services, particularly between Paris and coastal areas in Normandy, citing safety concerns linked to high winds and debris on tracks. Local officials reported numerous road closures after trees were uprooted or power poles collapsed, slowing emergency response and repair operations.
Coastal areas along the Atlantic and Channel coasts experienced rough seas and large waves, leading to localized flooding and damage to ports and seaside facilities. Several municipalities closed public spaces, including promenades and beaches, as a precaution. Fire and rescue services carried out multiple interventions linked to fallen objects, damaged roofs and blocked access routes.
Transport and public services disrupted nationwide
Education authorities announced the closure of schools and the suspension of school transport in some of the hardest-hit areas, including parts of Manche and Seine-Maritime. Local governments said the measures were taken to reduce risks to children and staff while conditions remained hazardous. No fatalities were reported in France as of Friday evening, according to official statements.
Storm Goretti also affected neighbouring countries, with parts of the United Kingdom and Germany reporting travel disruption and power outages linked to the same weather system. Meteorological agencies across northern Europe had warned of severe conditions as the storm combined strong Atlantic winds with winter weather patterns.
Local governments issue safety advisories
France’s civil protection services said coordination remained in place between national and local authorities, energy operators and emergency responders. Officials said assessments of damage to public infrastructure and private property were ongoing, while residents were advised to follow official guidance and avoid unnecessary travel until conditions improved.
The storm marked one of the most severe weather events to hit western France this winter, testing power networks and transport systems across multiple regions. Authorities said updates on restoration efforts and safety measures would continue to be issued as crews worked to bring services back to normal.