Orange Weather Alerts for Snow and Ice Prompt Restrictions in Côtes-d’Armor and Sarthe

The departments of Côtes-d’Armor and Sarthe in France have been placed under orange weather alerts by Météo-France due to snow and ice risks from early January 5 through January 6, 2026. Côtes-d’Armor faces expected snow accumulations of 3 to 7 centimeters, reaching up to 10 centimeters in higher elevations, while Sarthe anticipates up to 3 centimeters of snow accompanied by freezing temperatures leading to icy roads.

In response, both prefectures have enacted strict measures to ensure public safety during the winter weather event. In Côtes-d’Armor, all heavy trucks over 7.5 tons are banned from national roads across Brittany and several departmental routes, with temporary exceptions on specific roads during limited evening hours. School transport services have been suspended department-wide for January 6. The prefect urges residents to limit travel, prepare winter vehicle equipment, and stay informed through official weather and traffic sources.

Similarly, Sarthe's prefecture prohibits vehicles over 7.5 tons from traveling on all roads from January 5 at 16:00, except for essential and emergency services such as salt delivery and hospital-related transports. Collective school transportation is suspended from January 5 at 20:00 until further notice. A crisis center is active to coordinate the emergency response, including prioritizing road salting on 1,100 km of critical roads out of the 4,200 km network. Residents are advised to restrict travel to necessary trips and ensure vehicle readiness.

These coordinated efforts across both departments aim to mitigate the dangers posed by the snowfall and icy conditions affecting local travel and safety. Public authorities emphasize caution, adherence to restrictions, and preparedness to protect residents during the ongoing winter weather situation.