Christian pilgrims in Lourdes evacuated after nearby river overflows

Hundreds of pilgrims to the famous Lourdes shrine in southern France were evacuated on Saturday after significant flooding. 

After heavy rainfall, a nearby river overflowed – causing water levels to rise about one meter deep in front of a grotto believed by some to be the place where the Virgin Mary appeared in 1858. 

The shrine was temporarily closed following the flooding – with its altar submerged under water. 

Staff, volunteers and emergency services worked together to clear the floodwater and reopen the sanctuary. 

Local officials reported that the evacuated included pilgrims and residents from nearby hotels and campsites. 

Heavy rain which caused the flooding had been ongoing since Thursday. 

The shrine is a major pilgrimage site, attracting millions of visitors each year. 

Lourdes has experienced major flooding in the past – with flooding in October 2012 causing significant damage to the holy site.