The Mistral – Part of Provence’s identity
The mistral is as characteristic of Provence as lavender fields and sunny skies. The cold, powerful wind has left its mark on the region’s nature, architecture, art and agriculture for centuries – and continues to play an important role in both climate and culture.
A sudden force – hold on to your hat
If you’ve never experienced the Mistral before, it may come as a surprise. It occurs suddenly and with great force. It’s not unusual to see umbrellas, chairs and hats fly away, even when they appear to be well anchored. In the most severe cases, the wind can seem violent and almost relentless – hence why it is sometimes called “the wind that kills”.
From north to south – Mistral’s way
The Mistral is formed when a high pressure over the Biscay and a low pressure in the Mediterranean south of France. The wind blows from the north or northwest and is carried down the Rhone Valley, where it accelerates before hitting the Mediterranean coast with full force.
Power and range
With an average wind speed of around 18 m/s – and up to twice that in extreme conditions – the Mistral can reach hurricane force. In rare cases, the wind can continue all the way to Mallorca and North Africa.
Cleans the air – and the sky
The mistral is dry and clear and has the ability to blow away clouds and dust in just a few hours. It is one of the main reasons for the bright weather and high number of hours of sunshine in Provence and the Côte d’Azur – and thus also a contributing factor to the area’s special climate and atmosphere.
By Tommy Sverre – updated 2025
