Severe Snow and Ice Paralyze Île-de-France Transport and Public Services on January 5, 2026

Île-de-France is grappling with severe disruptions as a major snow and ice event hits the region on January 5, 2026. Météo France has placed the area under an orange alert from 2 PM on January 5 until 10 AM on January 6, signaling dangerous travel conditions due to snowfall and ice accumulation.

Authorities report record-breaking traffic jams exceeding 1,000 kilometers across Île-de-France, with many roads congested or closed. The Prefecture of Police in Paris has activated a level 3 snow and ice plan, which includes imposing a speed limit of 80 km/h on all vehicles and banning heavy trucks over 3.5 tons from major roads to mitigate hazards. Emergency lines have been urged to remain free for true emergencies, accompanied by strong recommendations for teleworking and minimizing road travel to ensure safety.

Transport systems have been severely disrupted: all bus services, including night buses run by RATP, are suspended; school transport services are halted in Yvelines, Seine-et-Marne, and Essonne. Additionally, train services face significant interruptions across RER and Transilien networks. Airports in Paris, including Charles-de-Gaulle and Orly, have cancelled approximately 15% of flights to accommodate operational difficulties caused by the weather.

City authorities have closed sports, cultural, and community facilities from 4:30 PM as a precaution. To assist residents, twelve salt bins have been distributed throughout the city, and warnings have been issued to travel cautiously, anticipate delays, and avoid non-designated heating devices for safety at home.

Philippe Tabarot, the Minister for Transport, highlighted the joint efforts of nearly 7,500 agents mobilized for snow management and urged residents to avoid driving where possible. Temperatures are expected to plunge to -6°C in some areas, maintaining icy conditions through Tuesday morning.

This snow and ice event represents one of the most significant disruptions in recent years, impacting daily life, transport networks, and public services across Île-de-France, with authorities actively managing risks and advising vigilance for all residents.