France Issues Orange Alert for Snow and Ice Amid Widespread Disruptions
Paris, 9 January 2026 – France’s national weather service, Météo-France, has placed six eastern departments on orange alert for snow and ice starting Saturday morning, as heavy snowfall and freezing conditions continue to disrupt travel across the country. The alert covers the Doubs, Jura, Haute-Marne, Haute-Saône, Vosges, and Territoire de Belfort, with forecasts of 1 to 3 cm of snow per hour, potentially leading to poor visibility and road hazards. Earlier in the week, 38 departments, including Paris and Île-de-France, faced similar warnings, resulting in hundreds of flight cancellations, train disruptions, and road closures.
Weather Forecast and Impacts
Météo-France predicts snowfall throughout Saturday, with wet or humid snow accumulating up to 1-3 cm per hour in windy conditions, creating drifts and reduced visibility. Temperatures will drop sharply overnight, increasing the risk of black ice. In the Paris region, previous alerts led to 40% flight cancellations at Roissy-Charles de Gaulle and 25% at Orly airports, while Eurostar services to London, Brussels, and Amsterdam were suspended. Road traffic bans on heavy goods vehicles over 7.5 tonnes remain in place in affected areas, and authorities urge residents to work from home and avoid unnecessary travel.
Key Facts and Statistics
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Departments on Alert | 38 initially (north and west, including Île-de-France); now 6 eastern (Doubs, Jura, Haute-Marne, Haute-Saône, Vosges, Territoire de Belfort) |
| Snowfall Forecast | 1-3 cm/hour, with potential for heavier accumulations; temperatures -2°C to 1°C |
| Travel Disruptions | Hundreds of flights cancelled; train services suspended; road closures and speed limits (70 km/h); truck bans on motorways |
| Casualties | Six deaths reported earlier in the week due to black ice and snow-related accidents in France |
| Duration | Alert in force until midnight; further disruptions expected into Sunday |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an orange alert for snow and ice mean?
An orange alert indicates significant snowfall or black ice that could severely impact daily life, including transportation and safety. Authorities recommend staying informed, avoiding travel, and following local advice to prevent accidents.
How is public transport affected?
In Île-de-France, bus services were suspended, and trains on RER, Transilien, and tram lines operated overnight to prevent ice formation. Similar disruptions occurred in other regions, with many services cancelled or delayed.
What precautions should I take?
Drive cautiously, equip vehicles with winter tyres, and clear snow from pathways. If stranded, stay in your vehicle and await help. Vulnerable individuals should seek shelter, and businesses are advised to allow remote work.