Southern France is reeling from the aftermath of Storm Nils, which has plunged 850,000 households into darkness and triggered the highest-level weather alerts in multiple regions. Authorities confirmed the crisis on Thursday, February 12, 2026, as emergency crews scramble to restore power amid fierce winds and hazardous conditions.
🌀 The Storm’s Impact
Winds exceeding 130 km/h battered coastal areas and inland departments, uprooting trees and damaging critical infrastructure. French power provider Enedis reported that over 850,000 homes lost electricity by Thursday morning, with repair teams working around the clock. Local officials urged residents to avoid travel and stay indoors as fallen power lines and debris littered roads.
🚨 Emergency Response
Firefighters and utility workers are prioritizing high-risk zones, including hospitals and emergency services. ‘This is one of the most severe storms we’ve faced this decade,’ said a regional safety coordinator. Social media footage shows toppled utility poles and flooded streets, with #StormNils trending across Europe.
🌍 Climate Context
Meteorologists link Nils to a pattern of intensifying winter storms in the Mediterranean, raising concerns about climate resilience. While no fatalities have been reported, the storm underscores the growing frequency of extreme weather events. Stay tuned for updates as France braces for more rain and gusts this weekend.
