19.12.2011 0

Provence & Côte d’Azur: Winter on the Riviera

Tornado and snow in Alpes Maritimes

Winter well and truly hit the Riviera this weekend as temperatures drastically plummeted. While the first snow of the season fell in Cannes, a tornado rumbled off the Baie des Anges, causing a stir among residents.

Winter well and truly hit the Riviera this weekend, as temperatures drastically plummeted. While the first snow of the season fell in Cannes, a tornado rumbled off the Baie des Anges, causing a stir among residents.
The tornado, lasting only half an hour, struck off the Baie des Anges at midday yesterday Copyright Riviera Rental Guide

The tornado struck just off Cap Martin at around midday on Sunday 18th December. The phenomenon, which calmed after just 30 minutes, is said to have been caused by a cumulonimbus cloud.

A common occurrence at sea, the cloud is the result of atmospheric instability. Lightening is created through the heart of the cloud and can often develop into a severe thunderstorm.

Meanwhile, the Promenade des Anglais and the famous Croisette in Cannes received a sprinkling of snow yesterday morning as temperatures fell below 10 degrees celcius. Saint-Vallier, a small mountainous village near Grasse, also received a light coating. Some traffic delays were experienced due to icy roads.

The extraordinary sight of a tornado at sea and the first snow of the year fascinated drivers and walkers in Nice and Cannes, as well as in Villefranche, Menton and Monaco, confirming that winter has finally arrived in the Côte.

Temperatures in the region are expected to stay at around 10 degrees celcius this afternoon, while an icy three degrees is predicted for tonight.

Louise Kirby

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