Historic Flooding Forces Total Evacuation of Cheffes-sur-Sarthe
CHEFES-SUR-SARTHE, 20 February 2026 – The Prefect of Maine-et-Loire has ordered the immediate and total evacuation of Cheffes-sur-Sarthe as western France grapples with catastrophic flooding following Storm Pedro. The small commune, home to approximately 1,000 residents, is facing a “historic” hydrological event with water levels expected to peak at 6.7 metres by Saturday morning.
Emergency Evacuation Underway
Following days of relentless rainfall brought by Storm Pedro—and exacerbated by the preceding Storm Leonardo—the Sarthe river has breached its banks to a degree not seen in decades. By Friday morning, the water level had already surpassed 6.5 metres, inundating homes, garages, and local businesses. The Prefectural decree for a total evacuation was issued after forecasts predicted an additional rise of 27 cm overnight.
Emergency services and local volunteers have been working throughout the day to assist residents. In some parts of the village, the only means of transport remains by boat. Local reports describe residents moving furniture and even livestock via small craft as the town centre becomes increasingly submerged. The village is currently described as “cut off from the world,” with major access roads impassable.
Regional Impact and Infrastructure
While Cheffes-sur-Sarthe is the focal point of the current crisis, the entire Maine-et-Loire department remains under a “Red Alert” for flooding. The city of Angers, located roughly 20 kilometres to the south, is also under significant pressure. As the Sarthe, Mayenne, and Loir rivers converge near Angers before flowing into the Loire, officials are monitoring several urban axes that have already been closed to traffic.
The geological makeup of the region, particularly the Jurassic-era soils and sand-heavy compositions found further north in areas like Beaumont-sur-Sarthe, has struggled to absorb the record-breaking volume of water delivered over the past week.
Key Flood Data: Cheffes-sur-Sarthe
| Metric | Current Status / Forecast |
|---|---|
| Current Water Level | 6.50 metres (as of 20 February) |
| Projected Peak | 6.70 metres (expected 21 February) |
| Population Affected | Approximately 1,000 residents |
| Vigilance Level | Red (Maximum Alert) |
| Primary River | La Sarthe |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was a total evacuation ordered?
The Prefect ordered the evacuation because water levels are predicted to rise by another 27 cm by Saturday morning, making it impossible for emergency services to guarantee the safety of residents remaining in the village centre.
Where are the residents being taken?
Displaced residents are being directed to emergency shelters established in nearby communes and higher-ground areas of the Maine-et-Loire department. Many have also sought refuge with family and friends outside the flood zone.
Is Angers also at risk?
Yes, Angers is currently under high pressure. While a total evacuation has not been ordered for the city, several major roads are flooded, and the confluence of the three rivers (Sarthe, Mayenne, and Loir) is being monitored 24 hours a day by hydraulic experts.
What caused this specific flood event?
The flooding is the result of a “train” of storms, most recently Storm Pedro, which brought heavy rainfall to already saturated ground following Storm Leonardo. This has led to what officials are calling a “crue d’ampleur historique” (a flood of historic proportions).