Storm Enol swept across Europe this weekend, wreaking havoc with heavy snowfall and fierce winds, particularly impacting regions such as the French Alps and Pyrénées-Orientales. Météo France has placed 54 departments on yellow alert for various severe weather conditions, such as flooding and black ice, with four departments under orange alert due to the storm's intensity.
The storm's effects were most notable on December 22, 2024, when meteorologists warned of significant snowfall, predicting accumulations of up to 40 cm at 1000 meters altitude. Forecasters had been closely monitoring the development of this weather system, noting the presence of strong northwest winds. Yann Amice, from Weather and Co, explained, “Un flux de Nord-Ouest se mettait en place dans la nuit de samedi à dimanche,” indicating the storm's rapid approach.
Warnings were particularly acute for the Alpes regions, where authorities expressed concerns about the risk of avalanches due to the heavy snow. Major Alpine resorts faced disruptions as access routes became hazardous. With forecasts estimating almost one meter of snow at altitudes above 1500 meters, local officials emphasized the need for drivers to prepare with winter tires and chains.
Actions taken included the cancellation of many holiday festivities; for example, the Christmas Village at Barcarès closed down by 5 PM on Sunday due to safety risks from the storm. Organizers had anticipated keeping operations running until the end of the weekend but had no choice but to respond to rapidly worsening weather conditions. Similarly, the Jardin de Noël in Pia saw its activities halted as conditions deteriorated. Meanwhile, the town of Soler hesitates about reopening its market, balancing safety and tradition.
Despite the disruptions, some outdoor activities persisted, like the “Splendeurs de Chine” lantern festival at Céret, which remained open, guiding visitors through the storm. Although many were deterred, those who braved the conditions found moments of magic amid the chaos.
The safety of individuals was on the mind of the local authorities, particularly due to the winds recorded at 80 to 100 km/h, contributing to road hazards. A notable incident involved a truck capsize caused by the strong gusts, which fortunately resulted in no injuries. Authorities advised motorist caution and vigilance, particularly for routes leading toward Andorra, where restrictions on heavy vehicles were implemented.
Beyond the French territories, neighboring countries felt the storm's impact as well. Conditions were reported to be unstable across much of Europe, with different regions grappling with storm warnings of their own. A combination of heavy snow and winds could lead to dangerous conditions, akin to the avalanche risks reported across the Alpes.
Looking forward, as the storm begins to recede, forecasters promise clearer skies. An approaching anticyclone is expected to restore stability to the weather from December 24, allowing some regions to finally catch their breath and begin to dig out of the significant snowfalls. “Mardi 24 décembre sera une journée de transition vers l’amélioration,” forecasters suggest, as people begin preparing for holiday celebrations.
This transition promises not only clearer skies but also safer conditions for the many travelers set to venture home or visit loved ones during the festive period. The weather is likely to hold stable through New Year celebrations, providing some much-needed respite from the tumultuous conditions brought about by Storm Enol.
With strong winds and heavy snow continuing to hit the region, safety remains at the forefront of everyone’s minds. Authorities, as always, urge everyone to be prudent and to stay updated on weather alerts and conditions as they develop. Travelers and locals alike are ready to embrace the holiday season, but only once the threat of weather-related dangers has passed.
