FR2DAY readers in the Var have been bombarding us with personal stories about the terrible flooding there. Everything from water-filled basements to heroic pet rescues. But the most important fact about the worst floods to hit the South of France in 200 years is that 25 people lost their lives. Among the dead was a two-year-old child. There are also 13 people still missing.

The flash floods, triggered by torrential rain, started on Tuesday. Draguignan was one of the towns mosty badly affected with streets turning into rivers, trees washed away and cars becoming dangerous floating missiles. The whole of the Var suffered hours of power cuts and last night (Thursday) there were still 75,000 people without electricity. Roads have been cut and railway services are extremely limited. It's serious.

Over 3,000 emergency workers are now deployed in the area, helping to restore services and bring supplies to nearly 2,000 people made homeless by the floods. President Sarkozy has sent his condolences to families of flood victims and promised all necessary funds for the rescue effort. Prime Minister Fillon is also closely involved in the rescue and restore operation.

It's been a dramatic year for weather in France - from deadly winter storms on the Atlantic coast to snow in Cannes and huge waves over the Promenade in Nice. Global warming? Who knows - but it might be wise to prepare for more of the same in the months and years to come.

Please visit the Facebook page that has been set up to lend your words of support to those affected by these devastating floods.