Persistent Cold Wave and Snowfall Challenges France as Families Seek Shelter in Paris

As France enters early 2026, a sustained cold wave with temperatures well below seasonal norms continues to affect the country, prompting emergency responses and highlighting social vulnerabilities. According to Le Figaro, temperatures in the northern half of France are expected to range between -5 and -7°C, with local rural areas dropping to -10°C. A snow event is forecast for the first weekend of the year, potentially impacting plains in the north, center, and east. Several departments, including Paris, have activated their cold weather plans in response to these harsh conditions. Alongside clear skies and persistent frosts, Météo France warns of possible fog in the Southwest and Northeast, while a clash of cold Scandinavian air and milder southern currents could bring additional precipitation. In Paris, vulnerable populations face stark challenges; Liberation reports that families have been sheltered in a gymnasium in the 20th arrondissement since mid-November. The intense cold has made these temporary accommodations difficult, with residents forced to keep their coats on even indoors at night. These families are striving to manage daily life as they await more stable housing solutions amidst the ongoing winter crisis. The New Year’s Day average temperature near 0°C echoes the severe winter of 2016, underscoring the severity of the cold spell and the urgency for continued vigilance and social support.