Case study from the archive · First published in 2010

When Storm Xynthia struck western France in February 2010, severe flooding devastated coastal communities, caused widespread property damage, and left thousands of residents without power. BELFOR quickly mobilised international restoration teams to help affected homeowners recover and return their properties to a safe, habitable condition.

Storm Xynthia Causes Severe Coastal Flooding in Western France

On 28 February 2010, Storm Xynthia hit France’s Atlantic coast with hurricane-force winds and powerful waves. Sea defences were breached, allowing floodwaters to inundate towns and villages across the Vendée and Charente-Maritime regions.

The disaster caused extensive flood damage. Thousands of people were affected, and many families lost homes and possessions.

Emergency Response Following a Major Natural Disaster

The French government declared the affected regions disaster zones to speed up insurance claims and recovery efforts.

BELFOR France established a support centre in La Rochelle shortly after the storm. The team worked closely with local experts to assess flood damage, plan restoration activities, and coordinate resources across the affected region.

Flood Damage Restoration and Water Removal at Scale

BELFOR specialists from several European countries joined the recovery operation. Their experience in disaster recovery and flood restoration enabled a rapid and organised response.

To remove water and begin the drying process, BELFOR deployed 50 pumps, 50 dehumidifiers, 150 air movers, and 40 static fans. These resources helped mitigate water damage and accelerate the recovery of flood-affected properties.

Rapid Drying Solutions for Flood-Damaged Homes

Floodwater and mud had entered countless buildings. Fast drying was essential to prevent further deterioration and make homes safe for residents.

BELFOR’s drying experts quickly installed equipment throughout the affected areas. The targeted drying programme helped restore living conditions and reduce the long-term effects of water damage.

Large-Scale Disaster Recovery Supports Local Communities

The restoration project continued for several months. It required significant manpower, specialist equipment, and close coordination between teams.

The operation demonstrated how experience, technical expertise, and rapid mobilisation can help communities recover after a major storm and coastal flooding event.

Restoring Homes and Stability After Storm Damage

Storm Xynthia left widespread destruction across western France. Through its large-scale flood damage restoration efforts, BELFOR helped affected residents begin rebuilding their lives and restoring their homes after one of the country’s most devastating coastal flooding disasters.

RED ALERT®

BELFOR’s strengths

The first 24 to 48 hours after damage occurs are crucial, which is why more and more forward-looking companies are choosing RED ALERT®, the international priority emergency service from BELFOR.

RED ALERT® means that we’ve got a coordinated emergency plan on standby for your company even in advance – and when the worst happens, we won’t lose valuable time. So when the alarm sounds, you don’t see red, you get Red Alerted!