Perhaps thinking of the last storm on May 4 that left that littoral in tatters, authorities are taking no chances this time. As of yesterday afternoon Nice beaches were closed all up and down the Promenade des Anglais. A stroll by the sea this afternoon left no doubt why. The sound of the  wind was deafening as it ripped across the sea.  Waves reared  back and crashed against the rocks sending up geysers of foam. Although the wind speed is officially clocked at 54km/hour with gusts up to 95km/hour, it felt much windier and seems to be getting stronger. The plagistes that took such a hit last month have already stowed their tables, chairs and parasols but so far the water hasn’t reached the walls of the Prom’. Let’s hope they’re spared this time. If not, it’s the customers who will pay. Menu and bar prices have jumped up this season on Nice beach restaurants, probably to reimburse the owners for their storm-related expenses.

Do you want to keep track of conditions along the Prom’? See this link for a live webcam of the Promenade des Anglais.