Flooding in Libourne and Surrounding Areas Prompts Municipal Safeguarding Plan Activation

Libourne, France – Rising water levels in the Dordogne and Isle rivers have prompted the activation of the Municipal Safeguarding Plan in Libourne and surrounding communities, leading to evacuations and the distribution of sandbags to residents and businesses. The situation, although anticipated, has resulted in some homes and cellars being flooded, particularly in the Fronsac area.

Current Situation in Libourne

Mayor Philippe Buisson, similarly President of the Cali agglomeration, toured sensitive areas of Libourne on Thursday, assessing the impact of the rising waters. According to Buisson, the water levels are comparable to those recorded during the reference flood of 1999. Philippe Buisson distributed sandbags to those at risk along the quays.

A potential concern has emerged in the Condat sector, where water levels rose higher than expected, raising questions about the integrity of the local dike. Traffic was temporarily restricted in the area while conditions were assessed.

Impact on Surrounding Communities

The neighboring town of Fronsac has been significantly affected, with water inundating marshlands. Mayor Marcel Durant described the situation as “a mess,” reporting that water had entered several homes. Libourne municipal employees faced challenges in delivering sand to residents stranded near the Libourne Equestrian Center due to the lack of a boat and flooded roads.

In Izon, Mayor Laurent de Launay distributed sandbags and reported water on the ground floor of some homes along the Dordogne riverbank. Similar caution was exercised in Génissac, where a dike is under surveillance following a breach. Mayor Émeline Brisseau emphasized the strong community solidarity as residents prepared for potentially rising waters later in the evening.

Ongoing Precautions and Response

Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and prepared. The activation of the Municipal Safeguarding Plan is intended to ensure a coordinated response and minimize the impact of the flooding. The equestrian center in Fronsac was evacuated on Wednesday as a precautionary measure.

Contact Information

For information regarding the situation in Libourne, residents can contact Mayor Philippe Buisson’s office at 05 57 55 33 33. More information can be found on the Libourne city website.