The Louvre Museum and the Musée d’Orsay have closed their doors early today and are preparing to evacuate artworks as the water level of the swollen river Seine continues to rise. Both Parisian institutions are located along the banks of the river, which rose over sixteen feet. According to The Telegraph, this is the second time the Louvre was forced to close due to flooding since World War II. The museum is calling for volunteers to help move artworks from its underground vaults to the safety of its upper floors.
Both institutions have emergency plans in case of flooding, and will remain closed until the city lifts its orange-level flood alert. The Louvre’s website states: “Due to the level of the river Seine, the Musée du Louvre will be exceptionally closed to the public on June 3, 2016 to ensure the protection of the works located in flood zones. We apologize for any inconvenience caused.”
Flood barriers have been erected along the banks of the river, which officials predict won’t reach its peak until midday Friday.