Heavy Snowfall in France Causes Fatal Road Accidents and Transport Disruptions

France experienced significant snowfall and icy conditions across several regions in early January 2026, leading to at least five deaths and widespread transport disruptions. The snowfall was heavier than initially predicted by Météo-France, as acknowledged by Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot, who stated that the event was underestimated, particularly in Île-de-France.

In Île-de-France, two fatalities were reported. On January 5, a truck slid into a van on the A4 motorway near Presles-en-Brie, killing the van driver and injuring two others. Another fatal accident occurred when a VTC driver lost control on icy roads in Perreux-sur-Marne; his vehicle plunged into the Marne River, leading to his death despite rescue efforts. His passenger survived but was hospitalized for hypothermia. Speed limits of 80 km/h were imposed on major roads, and trucks over 3.5 tons were banned, which contributed to lighter than usual traffic congestion, with only about 50 kilometers of jams compared to the typical 350 kilometers.

In the Landes department, three people died due to traffic accidents related to icy conditions, including a collision between two Flixbus coaches on the A63 highway.

Significant snow accumulation was reported in northwest France, with up to 30 centimeters falling in Charente-Maritime and over 10 centimeters in Vendée. This led authorities to advise residents to remain at home and suspend school transportation. The region witnessed around eleven material accidents and twenty-four rescues from stranded vehicles. Train services were halted in several areas, and a portion of the A10 highway was closed due to a truck blocking the road. Six airports in the west and north of France were closed due to weather, although Paris airports remained operational.

Despite these difficulties, Minister Tabarot noted the night went "fairly well" due to preemptive road salting and safety measures. Nonetheless, warnings remain as cold temperatures between -3°C and -10°C and further snowfall or freezing rain are expected, with the potential for renewed alerts.

Overall, the severe winter weather has had a profound impact on road safety and transport networks across France, with authorities closely monitoring the evolving situation and implementing restrictions to mitigate risks.