Marseille experienced severe flooding on Wednesday as a violent storm hit the city, particularly affecting the Vieux Port area.

Heavy rains, with up to 70 mm falling in a short period, led to significant water accumulation, disrupting traffic and daily activities.

The Bouches-du-Rhône department, along with 11 others in southern and central France, was placed under an orange alert for storms and potential flooding.

The Delta Festival's opening was postponed due to safety concerns, and local authorities urged residents to exercise caution.

This weather event is part of a broader "Mediterranean episode," characterized by intense rainfall over a short duration, which experts link to climate change.

The situation remains critical, with further storms expected.