A significant snowfall is expected this weekend, following an initial layer on February 7, 2025, with alerts for snow and ice affecting 28 departments. Travel may be complicated during winter holidays, especially for those heading to ski resorts, due to icy conditions. Regions like Normandy and parts of southeastern France could see substantial accumulations, with forecasts predicting up to 1 meter of snow in higher areas. Drivers are advised to exercise caution due to slippery roads and potential traffic disruptions.
Winter Weather Returns with a Major Snowfall
The recent mild spell of winter has officially come to an end as a significant snow episode is set to descend upon us this weekend. Following the initial snowfall on Friday, February 7, 2025, this winter weather pattern is expected to intensify, with yellow and orange alerts for snow and ice impacting 28 departments on Saturday, February 8, 2025. Affected regions will witness considerable snowfall, and more updates will be provided as the situation unfolds.
Travel Challenges Amid Winter Holidays
This alert coincides with winter holidays in several school zones, potentially complicating travel plans along major highways. Motorists planning trips to ski resorts or weekend getaways should exercise caution due to the predicted icy conditions. The formation of ice will further exacerbate driving difficulties, making vigilance essential for those on the road.
Beginning on February 7, the northwest of France, particularly Normandy and Brittany, has already experienced initial snowfall, with several centimeters recorded. Some parts of Île-de-France have also seen flurries, though slightly above-freezing temperatures have limited ground accumulation. Forecasts indicate that regions like Normandy could receive an additional 1 to 3 cm of snow, particularly in elevated areas.
As the weekend progresses, the snow front is anticipated to shift southeast, impacting regions like Ardèche, Lozère, Haute-Loire, and Aveyron, which are currently under orange alert. Meteorologists predict that these areas could see substantial snow accumulation, potentially reaching up to 50 cm or even a meter on the highest peaks of Mont Lozère and the Ardéchois ridges. The latest report from Météo France warns of sustained precipitation across a large portion of southeastern France, with heavy snowfall expected in the Cévennes and Corsica, raising hydrological concerns. Snowfall is also likely in Alpine, Massif Central, and Pyrenees regions, with notable accumulations anticipated, especially in the plains south of the Massif Central.
This first weekend of school holidays brings an influx of vacationers heading to ski resorts in the Alps and Pyrenees. However, the predicted snowfall may lead to significant traffic disruptions along routes to these destinations. Precipitation from the Gulf of Lion will become trapped over the Massif Central during the night from Friday to Saturday, resulting in rapid snow accumulation. Mountain passes and roads will be particularly vulnerable, and motorists are urged to check traffic updates before embarking on their journeys. Snowfall of over 50 cm to 1 meter is expected in the Mont Lozère peaks and the Cévennes region.
In addition to snow, icy conditions pose a serious risk for drivers. Near-freezing temperatures combined with wet precipitation can create slippery surfaces, significantly heightening the danger of accidents. According to Météo France, the yellow alert primarily affects several departments, urging residents to remain vigilant.