Yellow Alert for Snow and Ice Continues in Savoie Amid Heavy Accumulations and Traffic

Météo-France has downgraded the snow and ice alert in the Savoie department from orange to yellow but continues to warn of hazardous weather conditions including snow, ice, wind, heavy rain, flooding, and avalanche risks. Snowfall is expected to accumulate significantly, with up to 40 cm above 1,200 meters, 20 to 30 cm between 800 and 1,200 meters, and 10 to 20 cm below 800 meters. The rain-snow limit will fluctuate, temporarily rising to about 1,200 meters before dropping again overnight. Wind speeds may reach 60 to 85 km/h, increasing the danger on roads and in mountain areas.

Traffic is expected to surge towards ski resorts in the Maurienne and Tarentaise valleys, with an estimated 160,000 vehicles heading towards these regions starting Friday evening. In response, the Prefect of Savoie has mandated that all vehicles be equipped with winter gear such as winter tires, snow chains, or snow socks until March 31, strictly prohibiting resort access to vehicles without appropriate equipment. Additionally, a ban on heavy goods vehicles over 7.5 tonnes from Albertville uphill will be enforced from January 9 at 10:00 p.m. to January 10 at 10:00 p.m.

Since late December 2025, France has experienced a prolonged period of cold and snow, with some plains experiencing temperatures as low as -14°C and mountain regions facing temperatures below -20°C for consecutive nights, marking the longest cold spell since 2012. Notable snowfall, including 10 cm in Paris and up to 50 cm in mountainous areas, has caused significant traffic disruptions. Despite the intense cold and snow, meteorologists do not classify this as a climatological cold wave due to insufficient duration and geographic extent.

Authorities have urged all motorists to exercise heightened caution under these conditions, emphasizing collective responsibility to maintain road safety during this winter weather episode.