Seine surges to 30-year high as Paris floods continue

The River Seine has reached its highest level for over three decades, as floods in Paris forced the closure of major landmarks and parts of the metro system.

Flood levels have climbed above 6m and are expected to reach as high as 6.5m, with more downpours expected over the weekend.

The Louvre and Orsay museums were shut as staff moved 250,000 artworks to safety from the basement, and the Cliny-La Sorbonne and St Michel metro stations were closed as a precautionary measure.

Bridges were closed and non-emergency boats were banned from the Seine, while authorities have reportedly taken initial steps to transfer the presidency and key ministries to secure areas.

The flooding could cost French insurance companies over €600 million according to the industry association AFA.

A week of heavy storms across central Europe has killed at least 15 people. Two people have died in France, ten in southern Germany, two in Romania, and one in Belgium.