Storm Goretti Hits France Amid Severe Snow-Related Transport Disruptions in Île-de-France

France is bracing for the impact of Storm Goretti, expected to bring strong winds and harsh weather starting Thursday evening through Friday morning. Forecasters warn of wind gusts reaching 100 to 130 km/h, with local peaks up to 140 km/h, primarily affecting regions such as Normandy, the Opal Coast, Brittany, and Cotentin. The storm will also produce waves up to 6 meters along the Atlantic and Manche coasts. Maritime authorities have issued cautions for sea users due to these hazardous conditions. Inland, gusts of 90 to 100 km/h north of the Seine may cause fallen branches and disrupt transportation networks on Friday morning.

Meanwhile, Île-de-France is already grappling with heavy snowfall of 3 to 7 centimeters that forced an unprecedented halt of bus services across the region. Approximately 10,000 buses on 1,900 lines were pulled back to depots as drivers deemed conditions unsafe. Île-de-France Mobilités emphasized safety as the priority and noted that operators like RATP and Keolis conducted reconnaissance trips before deciding to maintain the suspension. School bus lines remain suspended indefinitely, and motorists are urged to avoid unnecessary travel. The combination of severe snow and the incoming storm is creating a challenging situation for public transport and travel safety in affected areas.