France is bracing for significant winter weather as early as January 2, 2025, with forecasts predicting snowfall across several regions, particularly the north-east. According to Guillaume Séchet, a meteorologist for actu.fr, the snowfall is almost certain to affect areas such as southern Champagne, Lorraine, Alsace, Franche-Comté, and Burgundy. Initial snow showers are expected to begin very early Thursday morning and may reach as far as Haute-Normandie, Île-de-France, and the Ardennes, though accumulation there may be minimal.
The French weather model, Arpege, which is one of the two developed by Météo France, indicates substantial snow cover for the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region starting Friday. Predictions for the period between Thursday and Saturday show regions across the east of France receiving noticeable snowfall, particularly as the weather front shifts eastward to areas more conducive to snow accumulation. Other weather models indicate potential for continued snowfall throughout the weekend, with varying amounts depending on the region.
Météo France has issued yellow alerts for snow and ice across 11 departments including Ardennes, Doubs, Haute-Marne, Meurthe-et-Moselle, Meuse, Moselle, Bas-Rhin, Haut-Rhin, Haute-Saône, Vosges, and Territoire de Belfort. On January 2, temperatures are predicted to drop as low as -7°C in Chamonix and as high as 7°C in Belfort. Weather forecasts call for strong winds with gusts between 60 and 80 km/h complicate icy conditions.
Thursday’s weather changes come as forecasters report the end of the calm period previously experienced across the country. Rain and snow will mark the transition, especially as precipitation covers much of the northeastern part of France. The day is predicted to begin with rainfall, which then shifts to snow as temperatures dip, particularly due to the arrival of colder air masses. Meanwhile, snowy conditions are expected to develop down to lower altitudes, which could create hazardous travel conditions on the roads.
Afternoon forecasts call for heavy snowfall through the evening, especially in regions like Lorraine and Alsace, where the snow will reach the ground as low as 400 meters. Caution is advised for motorists, particularly on mountain roads, as snow could accumulate several centimeters on the ground. Predictions indicate possible accumulations of 10 to 20 centimeters of snow over the Vosges and Jura mountains by the end of Thursday.
Looking forward to the weekend, another weather disturbance is expected to sweep through the region, likely bringing precipitation back by Saturday, coupled with warmer temperatures and higher winds. This pattern highlights the volatility of winter weather patterns as conditions shift. By Sunday, residents of the north may see snow returning along the country's northern extremities, with rainfall also expected to impact southern regions as temperatures gradually warm up.
Despite variations, January 2025 is being marked as significantly colder compared to previous years with comparable weather. The anticipated return of cold and snowy conditions across numerous cities presents opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts, especially as ski resorts across the Vosges region prepare for increased tourist activity.
While enthusiasm for the return of typical winter weather is palpable, it is necessary to approach these forecasts with caution, as meteorological conditions can rapidly change. The overall messaging from experts is clear: stay informed, prepare for wintery conditions, and remain cautious if venturing outdoors or traveling.