The weather patterns across France are set to shift dramatically next week as early season snowfall is expected, particularly affecting several regions already on alert for intense cold fronts. Following nearly two weeks of calm weather, meteorologists are predicting significant changes due to incoming depressions from the Atlantic, ushering cloud cover, rain, and snow at lower altitudes.
Forecasts indicate the week starting November 18, 2024, will be particularly tumultuous for the Lyon metropolitan area, where snowfall might blanket the plains of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. According to Météo-France, on Monday, sunshine will dominate, but the weather will take a turn as early as Tuesday when cloud cover increases, bringing with it the potential for both rain and snow. Snowfall is projected to be heavier as the week progresses.
By midweek, residents can expect significantly lower temperatures. Saturday, November 16, began with maximum temperatures around 10°C, but by Monday, highs are only forecasted to reach around 8°C, with nighttime lows dipping to as low as 5°C. The brisk chill is likely to lead to frost formation, especially on exposed surfaces.
Come Tuesday, strong winds accompanying the incoming weather system will intensify, possibly reaching speeds of up to 90 km/h. This shift will trigger widespread rain for the northern regions, with conditions deterioriating significantly overnight. Snow will likely commence on the eastern ranges by evening as temperatures drop.
Wednesday may offer brief respite from the downpours, but conditions remain volatile with additional snowfall expected on the northern Alps, and wind gusts sustaining their intensity. The anticipation of snow at lower elevations brings excitement but also concern, as communities prepare for potential disruptions.
Thursday is shaping to become the week’s climax, with another deep depression forecast to pass through. This could bring more snow to regions such as Alsace, where the line between rain and snow could blur significantly at altitudes creeping lower across the northeastern stretches of the country.
Meanwhile, on Friday, the atmosphere should begin calming as the heavy weather pattern shifts. Yet, the cold will remain, keeping temperatures stagnant, which could lead to the formation of ice patches overnight as moisture settles.
Seven departments, including Cantal, Hautes-Alpes, Savoie, Haute-Marne, Moselle, Bas-Rhin, and the Territoire de Belfort, are particularly at risk for early snow. The forecast predicts notable snowfall beginning late Wednesday through Thursday night and potentially extending throughout Friday.
Temperatures will not just be low, but especially sharp for mid-November standards, dipping below zero during the nights of Thursday and Friday as winter makes its presence truly felt. Such conditions are likely to inspire not only the creation of snowmen but also safety precautions as travel could be hampered by slick roads and low visibility.
This anticipated shift from mild autumn conditions to wintry weather brings with it some challenges and joys—credit goes to those who love the snow, but vigilance is requested of travelers and locals alike to navigate the early season chill responsibly. The forecast serves as both warning and invitation to embrace the season as temperatures tumble and snowflakes flutter across the skies of France.
So, will this week mark the fun of the first snowfall for many? While the excitement gathers momentum, it's wise to keep the cold realities of winter weather top of mind as communities brace for the impending icy embrace.
