Loire River Flooding Forces Sainte-Luce-sur-Loire Residents to Use Boats

Residents of Sainte-Luce-sur-Loire, France, are navigating their neighborhood by boat after the Loire River overflowed its banks, inundating the Bellevue district. Municipal workers are manually pulling boats across approximately 200 meters (656 feet) of flooded roadway to allow residents access to their homes, according to local reports.

Rising Waters and Community Response

The flooding is caused by both the overflowing Loire River and the Plessis body of water, which has also breached its banks, submerging nearby fields. Residents are taking proactive measures to protect their properties, such as elevating furniture. One resident, Christophe, explained he moved all his furniture to higher ground and is currently living upstairs, anticipating potential further rises in water levels. He received assistance from friends in preparing his home.

Municipal Support and Safety Measures

Local authorities are providing support to residents, distributing sandbags and cinder blocks to help protect homes. Municipal agents are stationed at the bridge to ensure safe passage for those using the boats. The road in the Les Roches area is currently impassable due to the 200-meter stretch of water.

Cultural Events Continue in Sainte-Luce-sur-Loire

Despite the flooding, cultural events are still taking place in Sainte-Luce-sur-Loire. The city is hosting a cultural exchange event, “Lucéens venus d’ailleurs,” offering a meal and cultural sharing opportunity for residents of foreign origin or nationality at the Manoir de Bellevue. More information about the event can be found here.

the association La Bellevusienne, in partnership with the city and the Association des créateurs lucéens, is hosting an event in the Bellevue village on Sunday. Details about this event are available here. The Créateurs Lucéens are also holding an ephemeral shop from December 5th to 21st at 79 promenade de Bellevue. Find more information about the shop here.

The Lycée Bellevue, located in a historic abbey dating back to 1685, continues to operate normally, offering modern facilities including an amphitheater and updated learning spaces. More information about the Lycée Bellevue can be found here.