Météo-France has issued yellow weather alerts for snow and ice across 26 departments, urging residents to exercise caution during travel this weekend.

The affected areas include Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Hautes-Alpes, and Alpes-Maritimes, among others.

The alert is in effect until at least 10 AM on Saturday, February 1, 2025, as temperatures are expected to drop to near-freezing levels.

Starting Friday night, significant rainfall is anticipated over large parts of Nouvelle-Aquitaine and Midi-Pyrénées, with a risk of snow in other regions.

Northwestern departments, such as Aisne and Nord, should prepare for potential disruptions, including slippery roads and reduced visibility. Snow accumulation is expected to begin on Saturday, with ice formation possible as temperatures hover around 0°C.

The Massif Central is likely to experience early snowfall, particularly after midday, while eastern regions may encounter icy conditions later as temperatures dip.

On Saturday, February 1, temperatures are projected to be quite cold, with 0°C expected in places like Chaumont, and only slightly warmer readings at other locales, such as 1°C ranging from Lille to Strasbourg.

Larger urban centers, including Paris and Lyon, will experience similarly cool conditions, hovering around 4°C.

Coastal areas may be spared from the harshest temperatures, showing readings of 5°C at places like La Rochelle, and potentially up to 9°C at Biarritz. Conversely, the Mediterranean regions of France will maintain slightly milder conditions, with highs reaching 12°C at Ajaccio and 11°C at Nice.

Authorities have cautioned motorists and travelers to be wary of slippery roads. The combination of snow and ice creates hazardous conditions, particularly on less-traveled rural roads. Météo-France advises, “With the decrease of temperatures and the presence of snow and/or ice, the roads may become slippery. Drivers should remain cautious, especially on secondary roads and rural areas.”

They encourage checking real-time road conditions using available navigation apps before heading out.

As winter weather continues to affect significant parts of France, residents and travelers are advised to remain vigilant, plan their trips accordingly, and be prepared for potential delays or disruptions caused by the adverse conditions.

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