LOC21:58
18:58 GMT
PARIS, Oct 18 (KUNA) -- The French authorities on Thursday declared a state of "natural disaster" for 126 towns in southern the country.
The move came after these areas were hit by floods and heavy rains, killing and wounding scores of people, according to local media.
Under the "natural disasters" system, people affected by floods will receive compensations from insurance companies for damage they sustained, the media carried a joint statement issued by various French ministries.
The files of the affected towns not included in the statement will be dealt with as soon as possible, French government spokesman Benjamin Griveaux said in a press release.
The authorizes closed all schools in the affected area, calling on residents to leave their towns due to extreme weather. (end)
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