Yellow Alert Persists for Snow and Ice in Savoie Amid Freezing Rain Risks in Northeastern France

On January 9, Météo-France lifted the orange alert for snow and ice in the Savoie department but maintained a yellow vigilance due to ongoing snow, ice, wind, and flooding risks. Snowfall continues with accumulations expected to range from 10 to 40 cm depending on altitude, accompanied by strong winds reaching 60 to 85 km/h. The weekend from January 9 to 11 will see increased traffic, with close to 160,000 vehicles heading towards ski resorts in the Maurienne and Tarentaise valleys. Authorities require mandatory winter equipment—such as winter tires and snow chains—on all vehicles until March 31, 2023. Additionally, heavy goods vehicles over 7.5 tonnes face a traffic ban from 10 p.m. on January 9 to 10 p.m. on January 10 to manage traffic safely. Prefect Vanina Nicoli urged caution, emphasizing the collective responsibility for road safety through reduced speeds and increased safety distances.

Meanwhile, northeastern France faces a brief but notable risk of freezing rain early Monday morning, January 12, affecting regions such as the Ardennes, northern Lorraine, and Alsace. This localized freezing rain coincides with peak traffic hours between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m., posing challenges especially on secondary roads. However, temperatures are expected to rise quickly afterward, diminishing the risk. This final weather disturbance marks the end of a cold episode that began around Christmas.

Motorists across affected regions are advised to stay cautious and adapt their driving to the hazardous conditions brought by snow, ice, and freezing rain.