A storm named Nils has caused significant disruption across France, resulting in one fatality and leaving approximately 850,000 homes without power, according to reports on February 12, 2026. The severe weather system is impacting a wide area, raising concerns about infrastructure damage and potential flooding.
The storm initially struck the Atlantic coast on Wednesday evening and is now moving towards the Gulf of Lion and Corsica, Météo-France reports. The Aude and Pyrénées-Orientales departments are expected to be particularly affected by the strong winds and heavy rainfall.
Authorities are warning of the increased risk of damage to trees and infrastructure due to already saturated ground conditions following weeks of heavy rain. The risk of avalanches is also elevated in the Alps. Severe weather warnings are in effect across numerous departments.
Wind gusts reached 120 to 140 km/h (75 to 87 mph) along the Aquitaine and Charente coastlines overnight, with inland areas of southwestern France experiencing winds of 100 to 120 km/h (62 to 75 mph).
France24 reports that four departments – Gironde and Lot-et-Garonne – are under red alert for flooding, although 19 departments are under orange alert for strong winds. Vigicrues.gouv.fr is monitoring flood levels.
The storm’s arrival highlights the increasing frequency of extreme weather events in Europe, prompting concerns about preparedness and infrastructure resilience. The power outages are impacting daily life for hundreds of thousands of residents and authorities are working to restore electricity as quickly as possible.
