France Braces for First Snowfall and Significant Temperature Drop Starting November 18

France is gearing up for its first substantial snowfall of the season beginning November 18, 2025, as a cold polar air mass invades the country following an unusually mild period. Snow will start settling at low altitudes, from 400 meters in the Jura, Vosges, and Massif Central to 600 meters in the Northern Alps, with the Pyrenees experiencing snow above 1,200 meters in the evening. Rain mixed with snow or sleet is foreseen in the plains, particularly in northeastern regions including Normandy and Hauts-de-France where localized snow showers could briefly coat the ground even at elevations as low as 200 to 300 meters.

Météo France has issued a yellow snow-ice alert for five departments: Ardennes, Creuse, Puy-de-Dôme, Cantal, and Corrèze, signaling the potential hazards accompanying the upcoming snowfall. Snow showers are also expected to spread toward the Swiss and German borders, impacting regions such as Grand Est, Bourgogne Franche-Comté, and northern Rhône-Alpes. Paris and Île-de-France may see mixed rain and snow, with the chance of more snow over the weekend.

Friday is predicted to be cold but dry, while light snow returns on Saturday; however, the extent of ground coverage will depend on prevailing temperatures. This weather shift follows significant morning frosts and a notable drop in temperature nationwide, marking a decisive break from the recent warmth. Residents are advised to stay informed about evolving weather conditions and take precautions against icy and snowy weather conditions expected in the coming days.