Unprecedented Summer Winter Storms Ravage Northern France Crops

Unexpected and intense weather patterns, including weeks of rain and the subsequent storm Patricia, have devastated crops in northern France. Bertrand Baey, a farmer from Sangatte, reported losing half of his oat crops due to the unusual storms. Remarkably, this region experienced a winter storm in the midst of summer. While Baey typically yields around 3.2 tonnes of oats annually, he now anticipates harvesting under a tonne this year. The adverse weather impacts extend to livestock as well, since Baey relies on his oats to feed his cattle. Facing a shortage, Baey hopes for government aid and insurance claims to cover his losses.