The Côte d’Azur is bracing for the arrival of Storm Benjamin, which is expected to move across France on Thursday 23 October 2025, bringing strong winds and showers to the French Riviera. The first effects are forecast to reach the region around midday, with gusty conditions lasting through the afternoon, according to Météo Côte d’Azur.
A YELLOW ALERT is already in place for high winds, and a shift to ORANGE cannot be ruled out, depending on how the storm evolves, said the weather service.
SNCF has issued a warning that “strong winds may disrupt train services” with cancellations, interruptions and speed restrictions expected on certain lines.
Météo Côte d’Azur predicts that winds may reach up to 130km/hr between Fayence and Vence.
Storm Benjamin has been named by Météo-France, and is forecast to have “severe impacts” across France, Belgium and the Netherlands, according to the BBC. The storm will also cross to the UK where heavy rains are also expected, although not as severe as on the continent. Yellow severe weather warnings have been issued for wind and rain.
In the South of France, Thursday will begin with light southwesterly winds, with cloud cover increasing as the storm front approaches. A few brief showers may appear by midday, with possible storms inland.
Midday to Late Afternoon:
As Storm Benjamin makes landfall over the region, expect a sharp rise in wind intensity. Gusts of 70 to 90 km/h will be widespread, with local peaks reaching 100 to 110 km/h. Inland, from Fayence to Grasse, Vence and Levens could see winds topping 120 to 130 km/hr.
Evening and Overnight:
By early evening, the strongest gusts will have passed, though winds will remain steady and cool under clearer skies.
After the storm, a cooler air mass will settle over the Côte d’Azur in the following days, bringing a crisp autumn feel to the coast and hinterland.
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