Météo-France Issues Orange Alert for Snow and Ice in 38 Departments Wednesday
Météo-France has issued an orange alert for snow and ice across 38 departments in France for Wednesday. This comes after a forecasted weather disturbance that will sweep over much of the northern part of the country. Snow accumulation between 3 to 7 cm is expected in most areas, with localized amounts reaching 10 to 15 cm in higher elevations.
Details of the Weather Alert
According to Météo-France, the weather disturbance will begin in the early hours, affecting regions from Vendée to the north. The timing of the alert varies, with some areas under warning from as early as 4 AM. By 6 AM, several other departments will also join the orange alert.
Impacted Regions
- Departments under alert include areas from Vendée to northern regions.
- Snow and freezing rain could impact travel on major roads.
As a precaution, schools in the Yvelines and Indre departments will suspend transport services. Heavy snowfall may lead to local fresh accumulations, posing challenges to commuters and transportation services.
Transportation and Travel Advisories
Authorities have announced the closure of five airports in the west and northern France, specifically:
- Nantes
- Vatry
- La Rochelle
- Albert-Bray (near Amiens)
- Saint-Nazaire
While airports in Paris are currently unaffected, travelers are advised to remain informed about conditions.
Safety Measures and Public Guidance
Road accidents attributed to icy conditions have resulted in fatalities across various regions, including Ille-et-Vilaine and Seine-et-Marne. The Transport Minister has advised the public to minimize travel when possible, encouraging remote work.
As of now, approximately 13,000 households are without power, most notably in the Pays de la Loire region. Electricity service providers report multiple outages due to adverse conditions.
This weather warning illustrates the severe impacts of winter weather in France. Residents are urged to prepare appropriately and stay updated through reliable sources such as Météo-France and local authorities.
