Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Storm Nils Strikes France: One Dead, 900,000 Homes Dark

2/13/2026

27 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Storm Nils hits France, causing one death and leaving more than 900,000 homes without power.
The storm began February 11 with winds above 100 mph and heavy flooding, prompting school closures and travel restrictions.
Authorities issued red alerts for several departments due to flooding and avalanche risks, with emergency services on high alert as it moves toward Corsica.

History

Historical Context

Storm Xynthia struck Western Europe from February 27 to March 1, 2010, causing at least 51 deaths in France and significant damage across multiple countries. The storm, described as the most violent since the 1999 storms Lothar and Martin, left over 1 million homes without power and prompted the French government to declare a state of emergency and demolish 1,510 homes in affected areas.

1 of 2

Story summary

Storm Nils hits France, causing one death and leaving more than 900,000 homes without power.
The storm began February 11 with winds above 100 mph and heavy flooding, prompting school closures and travel restrictions.
Authorities issued red alerts for several departments due to flooding and avalanche risks, with emergency services on high alert as it moves toward Corsica.

1 / 2