Severe Snow and Ice Disrupt Transport Across France on January 7, 2026

On January 7, 2026, severe winter weather caused significant disruptions across multiple French transport systems, including air, rail, road, and public transit. Snow and freezing rain resulted in more than 100 flight cancellations at Roissy Charles-de-Gaulle and approximately 40 at Orly airport. Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot expressed hope that normal operations would resume by the afternoon but urged caution.

Rail networks were heavily impacted, with SNCF reporting major interruptions on the Orléans-Nantes and Tours-Angers lines. Train services in the Saintes area remain suspended, with potential resumption planned for Thursday morning, weather permitting. Speed reductions were imposed on high-speed lines, while electric trains on critical routes such as Tours-Saumur and Tours-Poitiers-La Rochelle ceased operation from 6 AM to noon due to freezing rain risks. In northern France, public transport systems, including Lille’s Ilévia network and bus services in Rennes, faced significant halts or reductions due to icy conditions.

Road traffic experienced severe congestion, with over 1600 kilometers of delays reported nationwide by 9:15 AM—more than double the usual volume for this time of day. The A21 corridor had the worst traffic, with 113 kilometers of jams, and Île-de-France alone saw over 860 kilometers of congestion exacerbated by the closure of the N118. Despite official advice to avoid travel and favor telecommuting, many drivers remained on the roads, intensifying the gridlock.

In Paris and Île-de-France, all bus services halted by 7 AM for safety, although tramways and RER lines A and B continued operating. The region was particularly affected as safety protocols limited bus circulation once snowfall exceeded three centimeters.

Authorities continue to monitor conditions closely, with several regions like Auvergne and Limousin still under orange alert due to the risk of icy roads and very low temperatures. Travelers are advised to check local transport updates and exercise caution.