Storm Ciaran Whips Western Europe, Blowing Record Winds in France and Leaving Millions Without Power

Waves crash over the harbour wall as Storm Ciaran brings high winds and heavy rain along the south coast of England in Folkestone, England, on Nov. 2, 2023. Gareth Fuller/PA via AP

PARIS—Recording-breaking winds in France and across much of western Europe left at least four people dead and injured several others as Storm Ciaran charged through the continent overnight and into Thursday, plunging vast numbers into darkness, devastating homes, and causing travel mayhem in several countries.

Winds of more than 190 kilometers per hour (118 mph) slammed the northern tip of France’s Atlantic coast, uprooting trees, and blowing out windows.