Storm Enol has wreaked havoc across France, bringing heavy snowfall and fierce winds as it struck various regions over the weekend, particularly impacting festive celebrations and everyday life.
From the early hours of December 22 to the afternoon of December 23, the storm dumped significant amounts of snow on Lyon and its surrounding areas. Reports indicated up to 20 cm of snow could accumulate in the Beaujolais region, leading to hazardous conditions for drivers and residents alike. The snow level is reported to be holding at elevations as low as 300 to 400 meters, with accumulations of 5 to 10 cm seen at altitudes around 500 meters, according to Météo France.
The picturesque winter scene has been marred by disruption, as local authorities issued yellow weather alerts for snow and ice, warning of difficult travel conditions. Fortunately, major snowfall was less severe within Lyon city limits, where meteorologists predicted little to no snowfall for the day following the storm's peak.
Further south, the impact of Storm Enol took another form, as the Village de Noël of Barcarès had to shut its doors on December 23 due to dangerously high winds. Gusts reaching over 100 km/h forced the closure of this popular Christmas market, which saw approximately 4,000 visitors evacuated the previous day as strong winds wreaked havoc on stands and decorations. "The Village had to close early on December 22, and the conditions worsened, leaving us no choice but to keep it closed [the following day]," local officials stated.
The severe weather did not stop at temporary closures. The mountainous areas of the Pyrénées-Orientales faced additional challenges as snow continued to fall heavily. Traffic on key routes was heavily regulated with limitations imposed on vehicles over 19 tons on the RN20 due to safety concerns. Between Foix and Ur, as well as along the RN320, complete vehicle prohibitions came during the storm, causing many travelers to face detours or delays.
Various roads were impacted, necessitating the use of special equipment to navigate through snowy conditions. Reports noted difficult travel conditions on major routes, including the RD 14 Col de Jau and RD 6 Col de Mantet due to snow drifts. Specific closures were also reported after incidents like fallen trees blocking paths, highlighting the challenges faced by drivers and travelers.
Meanwhile, the coast has not been spared, either. Granville, located within the Manche department, saw the quantifiable impacts of Storm Enol, particularly at popular tourist locations like the jardin Dior and the promenade du Plat Gousset. Authorities closed access to both venues on December 22, advising the public to stay away due to the high winds and serious risks posed at these coastal sites. “If the spectacle can be beautiful, the danger, in case of strong gusts, is also significant,” municipal authorities remarked, highlighting the risks of severe weather during typically festive times.
Despite the severe weather challenges, there remains optimism as the region prepares for the holiday celebrations. Local businesses affected by closures express hope for recovery, with many promising to reopen just as soon as conditions allow for safety. Communities are rallied around mutual support, ensuring those impacted receive the assistance they may need.
With the storm's winds expected to gradually ease, the hope is for calmer weather to allow residents to enjoy the holiday atmosphere safely.
While the snow has brought some magical scenes reminiscent of Christmas, it also served as a stark reminder of nature's unpredictability. Local authorities have reiterated safety measures and advisory warnings as they continue to monitor the post-storm recovery.
