Historic Flooding Expected in Ancenis, Loire Valley as River Levels Rise

Ancenis, France, is bracing for a historic flood of the Loire River, with water levels predicted to reach heights not seen in over 31 years. The anticipated surge, expected between Wednesday and Friday, follows weeks of heavy rainfall and is compounded by high tides.

Loire River Levels Soar Following Prolonged Rainfall

The region upstream, particularly Maine-et-Loire, is already under red alert for flooding. Meteorologist Steven Tual, of “Temps breton,” forecasts that Ancenis will experience a “historic” flood event. February has been significantly wetter than January, with cumulative rainfall reaching 308 mm in La Roche-sur-Yon and 255 mm in Nantes as of February 17, 2026 – approximately 50% above average. While not yet exceeding the records set in February 1995, continued rainfall could bring levels even higher. France Bleu

Contributing Factors to the Flood Risk

Several factors are converging to exacerbate the flood risk. Water from the Maine-et-Loire region is flowing into the Loire at Ancenis, combined with runoff from Nantes. High tides are expected to contribute to a “surcote,” or increased water level, particularly in the Vendée and Loire-Atlantique departments, which have relatively low elevation. France Bleu

Impact on Surrounding Areas

The rising Loire River is already overflowing its banks, inundating roads and beginning to enter homes. Ouest-France The Sèvre nantaise river is too expected to be affected, as it will be unable to drain into the swollen Loire. Additional rainfall of 30-50 mm is forecast for Loire-Atlantique and 15-30 mm for the Vendée, further worsening the situation.

Regional Vigilance and Preparedness

As of February 16, 2026, Maine-et-Loire is the most affected department in the Pays de la Loire region, with most major waterways under orange alert for flooding. Residents along the Loire River in Maine-et-Loire have received evacuation orders via SMS. Thirteen roads have been closed due to flooding. La Baule Maville The Loire-Atlantique and Sarthe departments also have waterways under orange alert. According to Steven Tual, the Loire at Ancenis-Saint-Géréon is nearing water levels not seen in over twenty years. La Baule Maville