France - wind force 12 peak gusts of an exceptionally strong Mistral storm were funneling down the Rhone Valley in Southern France. Mistral conditions may persist for several days, and are best developed when a depression is forming in the Gulf of Genoa to the east of a ridge of high pressure. The airstream that feeds the mistral is commonly derived from polar air of maritime origin. In the Rhone Valley the airflow is strengthened by katabatic and funnelling effects frequently producing speeds of up to 75 knots (85 mph) , while the coasts might experience about 40 knots (45 mph) winds at the same time.

Peak gusts of 69 knots (80 mph) were recorded at Istres, and 64 knots at (74 mph) at Marseille on February, 21.

Related links:
Mistral
Air masses and their sources
Wind forecast
The Beaufort wind scale
Highs and lows and winds