What Impact Did Storm Benjamin Have on France?
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Synopsis
On October 23, Storm Benjamin wreaked havoc across France, leading to injuries and significant disruptions. With high winds and widespread power outages, the national meteorological service provided crucial updates. This article explores the storm's effects and the response from authorities, offering insights into the challenges faced by residents.
Key Takeaways
- Winds reached up to 130 km/h in certain areas.
- Over 140,000 households were without power.
- Storm-related injuries were reported, including electric shocks.
- Train services faced significant disruptions.
- Weather alerts were issued by both French and Dutch meteorological services.
Paris, Oct 23 (NationPress) The autumn storm 'Benjamin' has swept through significant areas of France on Thursday, resulting in numerous injuries and extensive disruptions, as reported by Meteo-France, the national meteorological and climate authority.
Winds reached speeds of 90 to 110 km/h along the Atlantic and Channel coasts, with gusts peaking at 130 km/h in certain regions. In the Mediterranean area, the tramontane wind hit 100 to 130 km/h. High waves were also noted along the Atlantic coastline.
As of 2 PM local time (1200 GMT), 11 departments remained on orange alert, reduced from 18 earlier in the day, according to Meteo-France, as reported by the Xinhua news agency.
Multiple injuries linked to the storm have emerged across the nation. In the southern department of Herault, a man sustained an electric shock after coming into contact with a power line while working on scaffolding. Luckily, his life is “not in danger,” according to broadcaster LCI.
The electricity network operator Enedis reported that over 140,000 households were without power nationwide by late Thursday morning. Train services faced disruptions on several major routes, with numerous high-speed TGV trains canceled or delayed. Suburban and regional train services in the Paris vicinity also experienced interruptions.
The storm is predicted to move eastward later in the day, impacting the Alpes-Maritimes and Corsica with additional strong gusts. Meteo-France indicated that showers would persist widely on Friday, although winds were anticipated to gradually diminish.
Storm Benjamin also impacted the Netherlands on Thursday, causing significant travel disruptions.
The Dutch national weather institute, KNMI, issued a 'Code Orange' alert for the western coastal provinces, forecasting powerful wind gusts of up to 120 km/h.
The agency cautioned about potential falling trees, property damage, and disruptions to roads and public transport.
On the railways, national operator Dutch Railways announced a reduced schedule for trains, warning of extended journey times and necessary transfers.
National railway infrastructure manager ProRail noted that some track maintenance work would be postponed if winds intensified.
Regarding air travel, the Dutch flagship carrier KLM canceled numerous flights from its Schiphol hub and warned of potential delays.
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport advised passengers to check its website for the latest flight updates before traveling.
The KNMI stated that the strong winds from Storm Benjamin are expected to gradually decrease throughout Friday, lingering longest in the northern Wadden Islands region.
Point of View
I emphasize that the safety and well-being of citizens is paramount during such extreme weather events. The response from emergency services and meteorological authorities plays a crucial role in managing the situation and minimizing risks. Our commitment lies in delivering accurate information to keep the public informed and prepared.
NationPress
23/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas in France were most affected by Storm Benjamin?
Storm Benjamin impacted large parts of France, particularly the Atlantic and Channel coasts, with significant effects felt in the southern department of Herault.
How fast were the winds during the storm?
Winds were recorded between 90 to 110 km/h, with gusts reaching up to 130 km/h in certain areas.
What kind of injuries were reported?
Several storm-related injuries occurred, including a notable case in Herault where a man received an electric shock.
How many households lost power due to the storm?
More than 140,000 households experienced power outages across France.
What was the response from transportation authorities?
Train services experienced cancellations and delays, while the Dutch Railways implemented a reduced schedule due to the storm.
