Emergency Evacuations in Aiguillon as Garonne River Levels Surge
AIGUILLON, 14 February 2026 – The confluence of the Lot and Garonne rivers has become the centre of a major climate emergency this Saturday, as record-breaking water levels have forced the evacuation of hundreds of residents in the historic town of Aiguillon.
Red Alert: Levee Breach and Mass Evacuations
Météo-France has placed the Lot-et-Garonne department on a “Red” flood alert as the Garonne Marmandaise section reaches critical thresholds. In Aiguillon, the situation escalated rapidly on Saturday morning following the collapse of a levee (digue), necessitating the urgent evacuation of over 500 people. Local authorities, supported by emergency services, have focused efforts on the high-risk districts of Sainte-Radegonde, Pelagat, and the Lot riverbanks.
The peak of the flood for the River Lot was recorded on Saturday morning at approximately 9.60 metres. Meanwhile, downstream in Marmande, officials warn that the Garonne could exceed 10.40 metres overnight, potentially surpassing the historic flood levels of 2021. The convergence of these two swollen waterways—known as the Confluent—has left much of the Aiguillon plain submerged.
Historical Context and Geography
Aiguillon is a 13th-century French bastide town, traditionally known for its strategic position overlooking the Garonne plain. While its medieval half-timbered houses and 18th-century architecture usually attract tourists and history enthusiasts, its location at the meeting point of France’s longest tributary (the Lot) and the Garonne makes it uniquely vulnerable to hydraulic surges during winter storms like the recent “Storm Nils”.
Key Flood Data: 14 February 2026
| Location / River | Status / Measurement |
|---|---|
| River Lot (Aiguillon) | 9.60 metres (Peak reached Saturday morning) |
| Garonne (Marmande) | Forecasted 10.40 metres (Saturday night) |
| Alert Level | Vigilance Rouge (Red Alert) |
| Evacuations | Approx. 1,000 people (Total area) |
Local Incidents and Municipal Response
Beyond the flooding, the town has faced additional strain on emergency resources. On Wednesday, 11 February, a residential fire in Aiguillon required the intervention of firefighters; three individuals were treated for smoke inhalation. In the political sphere, despite the current crisis, municipal preparations continue for the 2026 elections, with incumbent Mayor Pierre Aiguillon recently presenting his list of candidates during a public meeting at the Salle Stevenson.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Aiguillon so prone to flooding?
Aiguillon is situated at the “Confluent,” the exact point where the River Lot flows into the Garonne. When both rivers experience high rainfall simultaneously, the volume of water exceeds the capacity of the plain, leading to significant overflows.
What is the current safety advice for residents?
Residents in the Lot-et-Garonne department are urged to follow the instructions of the Prefecture. Those in designated flood zones (Sainte-Radegonde, Pelagat) must evacuate when requested and avoid using roads near the riverbanks, many of which are currently impassable.
How does this compare to previous floods?
The 2026 flood is approaching the severity of the 2021 event. With the Garonne expected to pass the 10-metre mark in nearby Marmande, this is considered one of the most significant hydrological events in the region for several years.