Valérie Pécresse Urges Franciliens to Avoid Travel Amid Snow and Ice

Valérie Pécresse, president of the Île-de-France region, advised residents to avoid travel due to significant snowfall and icy conditions. This recommendation applies particularly to the morning of the next day, urging those who can to work remotely instead.

Emergency Measures in Response to Severe Weather

An inter-ministerial crisis cell, headed by Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez, convened to coordinate response efforts as winter weather severely impacted many regions. Present at this meeting were Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot and Health Minister Stéphanie Rist.

Impact of Heavy Snowfall

The adverse weather has resulted in power outages across various regions, notably affecting around 13,000 households. Enedis reported approximately 8,000 outages in the Pays-de-la-Loire and 5,000 in Charente-Maritime due to downed trees and branches damaging electrical lines.

Travel Advisory and Transportation Disruptions

• Philippe Tabarot highlighted the necessity for travelers to avoid road trips on the following day due to heavy snowfall.
• Less than 40% of flight movements at Paris-Charles-de-Gaulle Airport are expected to be affected due to delays from snow removal operations.
• 85% of public transport operated normally in Île-de-France, although localized disruptions occurred.
• Severe weather prompted the suspension of school transport services across several affected departments.

Variable Conditions Across France

Weather forecasts from Météo-France predict further snow accumulation, particularly in the northern and western parts of the country. Areas may see additional snowfall ranging from 3 to 7 centimeters, with local peaks reaching up to 15 centimeters.

In response to the conditions, 38 departments have been placed on orange alert for snowfall and ice. Officials are continually monitoring the situation and advising residents to stay informed about travel conditions.

Safety Initiatives and Community Support

The crisis management team is actively coordinating with local authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of residents. Emergency response teams are engaged in clearing roads and assisting stranded motorists.

Pécresse’s call for caution aims to minimize potential hazards associated with travel during these adverse weather conditions, demonstrating the importance of public safety in times of severe weather emergencies.