Orange Alerts Trigger Widespread Snow and Ice Safety Measures Across France

Météo-France has issued orange weather alerts for snow and ice in 38 departments across northern and western France, effective January 7, 2026. Forecasts predict snowfall accumulations of 3 to 7 cm, with up to 10 cm in higher terrain, accompanied by freezing rain causing hazardous conditions from the Hauts-de-France through to the Paris region and parts of Nouvelle-Aquitaine.

This second highest vigilance level has prompted government and municipal responses to ensure public safety. In Corrèze, an exceptional traffic regulation order bans circulation of heavy goods vehicles over 3.5 tons on both main and secondary roads and imposes a 20 km/h speed limit reduction for lighter vehicles. School transport is suspended throughout the department due to dangerous road conditions. Similarly, the Finistère department has suspended school transport and placed speed restrictions on heavy trucks to curb accident risks. The transport minister also advises avoiding travel in the Île-de-France region, which remains under alert.

Municipalities have mobilized early morning efforts to manage the snowfall. Salt spreaders have been deployed pre-dawn in Île-de-France, Normandy, and Brittany to treat roads, while local officials like Eddie Aït, mayor of Carrières-sous-Poissy, are actively supervising snow clearance operations. Despite the rarity of such heavy snowfalls in some areas, preparations and quick responses aim to mitigate disruptions.

Authorities emphasize caution when traveling, recommend limiting movements, and issue public safety reminders regarding heating device use during cold conditions. These measures reflect an urgent coordinated approach to confront the rare and potentially hazardous winter weather affecting multiple regions simultaneously.