Violent winds and torrential rain have hit western Europe, causing flooding in many regions, particularly in France, and leading to severe power outages in Ireland.
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After heavy rainfall from Storm Herminia, Météo France has now issued a new warning for Storm Ivo, which is approaching the coast Brittany. Six departments in mainland France are under an orange alert for flood risks on Thursday, January 30, while Ille-et-Vilaine, Loire-Atlantique, and Morbihan are on red alert.
Calvados, Orne, Mayenne, Somme, Sarthe, and Maine-et-Loire remain under orange alert.
Due to the severity of the situation, French authorities have fast-tracked the process to declare a state of natural disaster.
In Ireland, Storm Éowyn has caused widespread power outages, leading the government to request EU assistance. In response, the EU Civil Protection Mechanism has been activated, supplying 13 power generators from the rescEU strategic reserve.
Additionally, the EU has activated the Copernicus emergency management service, providing analytical support to national authorities.
A team of ten Austrian power workers arrived in Ireland to assist EBS with power restoration.