Météo-France has issued yellow weather alerts for 51 departments amid expectations of snow, ice, and flooding across several regions of the country. From the northern parts to the mountainous areas, residents are being warned as significant weather changes are anticipated for January 3, 2025.
The weather service has pinpointed various areas where avalanches, heavy snowfall, and possible flooding could occur. Specifically, the Alps and Alpes-Maritimes are highlighted under yellow vigilance alerts due to avalanche risks. According to Franceinfo, the possibility of flooding has also been commented on, particularly for regions with heavy precipitation.
According to the alerts, departments such as Normandy, Aisne, Ardennes, Deux-Sèvres, Marne, Oise, Seine-et-Marne, Val-d'Oise, Yvelines, Ille-et-Vilaine, and Vendée are noted for possible flooding. Residents near flood-prone rivers, including the Automne, Meuse, Sèvre Niortaise, Touques, Seine, Rance, and Lay, are particularly urged to be cautious as rain accumulations could reach 2.2 mm.
The anticipated rainfall and snow are to be expected to conclude by the evening of the same day. Meanwhile, forecasts for January 4 indicate additional disruptive conditions, prompting the issuance of orange vigilance warnings for severe weather and continued yellow alerts for the affected departments.
On January 4, the southwest of France experienced persistent rain, with localized black ice expected due to pre-existing frozen ground. While the central and northern parts may see temporary sunny spells, cold conditions persist with clouds moving from the south.
Temperatures across the country are chilling, ranging from -6 to -1 degrees Celsius across the northern plains and dropping to -15 degrees Celsius in mountainous areas. The daytime highs struggle to achieve temperatures above 4 degrees Celsius for much of the northeastern quadrant, contrasting with milder conditions of 14 to 18 degrees Celsius recorded in the southwest.
Further, 44 departments will remain under yellow alert largely for black ice risk as snow and rain continue to be active weather elements. Announcements say the cold-dependent conditions are particularly pronounced over the heights of the Massif Central and are expected to escalate during the evening hours.
Officials continue to urge residents to remain vigilant against the backdrop of rapidly changing weather patterns—encouraging preparedness for winter conditions and keeping updated via official weather alerts.
For more detailed safety advisories and updates, residents are advised to follow official channels and local news outlets.