Storm Austen: fifteen departments on orange wind alert Friday

Météo-France has issued an orange alert for strong winds in five departments due to storm Austen, expected to bring severe weather overnight. The storm will affect regions including Brittany and Normandy, with wind gusts reaching up to 140 km/h along the coast. Precautions have been taken, including restrictions on coastal access and disruptions to train services. The storm arrives after a dry summer, potentially impacting vulnerable vegetation. Saint-Malo will also close its Route du Rhum village ahead of the upcoming transatlantic race.