Flash floods wreak havoc in southern France

Southern France has been hit by a catastrophic flash flood - the worst of its kind since 1827. The streets of Draguignan, near Marseille, were transformed into torrential rivers that took many residents by surprise. The flood waters rose so quickly, that many people became trapped. Around six months worth of rain fell in 24 hours on Tuesday and Wednesday and water six feet deep flooded the area.

Cars, trees and buildings have been devastated by the floods, which have left at least 20 people dead, many of them elderly. With several people still missing, the death toll could continue to rise.

A rescue mission is still underway to find missing residents. Fire fighters have helped to free people trapped in their cars and those that sought refuge on their roofs. Around 1,500 people called for assistance. Some have even been airlifted to safety by helicopters. Thousands of people have been left without electricity, water or phone lines.

The flood water has turned Draguignan into a brown lake, where parked cars bob on the surface. Wrecked cars and debris have been strewn throughout the region, and many ground floor rooms have been severely damaged by the flood.

The popular tourist region of Fréjus in southern France was also affected by flooding, where around 1,500 were taken to safety by inflatable boats. Temporary shelters have been provided to house people that can't return to their homes.

When Draguignan prison flooded, over 400 inmates had to be moved to alternative prisons in southern France.

Rail services between Toulon and Saint-Raphael had to be put on hold to allow flood water to drain away.

In spite of the rain continuing to fall in southern France, the flood water has begun to recede. But local people are angry that they didn't receive sufficient warning about the floods.

If you have a holiday booked in Fréjus, or anywhere else in southern France, check the local weather reports before you travel and make sure you have travel insurance to cover your trip. If you get caught out by a flood while you are abroad, you can call Consular Assistance on: 020 7008 1500. The Consular Assistance team will be able to advise you on the best course of action.

Your travel insurance should include cover for floods under the catastrophe section. Insurewithease.com has a range of affordable single trip and annual travel insurance policies on offer that include cover for floods.

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