Between October 6 and 22, two episodes of heavy rainfall led to major floods in the department's rivers, notably the Soulondres, Laurounet, and Lergue. The first flood, on the night of October 6-7, dropped between 150 and 250 mm of rain, causing a rapid rise in water levels and reshaping riverbeds. The second, on October 19-20, also necessitated an orange alert.
Despite the severity of the events, the drinking water supply was secured thanks to the swift action of SIELL teams. The main Payrol source was isolated, and interconnections were activated to maintain the quality of water distributed in Lodève and surrounding towns. Normalcy was restored on October 11 for the first episode and October 22 for the second.
Damage to the water and sanitation networks is estimated at €324,895 excluding tax, affecting 11 municipalities. Interventions included repairing wastewater networks, replacing swept-away manhole covers, clearing blocked pipes, and fixing access roads to facilities.
Under the GEMAPI framework, emergency works were initiated to secure watercourses. Local companies extracted flood-swept vehicles, removed debris, and repaired riverbanks and paths. Projects are also planned for bank protection and the creation of diversion channels.
The technical services of the City of Lodève and the CCLL mobilized to assist affected residents and clean public spaces damaged by water infiltration in several municipal buildings. The Communauté de communes Lodévois et Larzac is preparing for the future with a river maintenance program and protection projects.
