Île-de-France on Snow and Ice Alert: Enhanced Vigilance Plan Activated

This Saturday, January 4, starting at 5:00 p.m., level 2 of the “snow and ice” plan (PNVIF) has been activated in Île-de-France by the regional and police prefectures in response to expected freezing rain. All departments in the region will be placed under orange alert for snow and ice beginning at 6:00 p.m.

As a precaution, the maximum speed limit will be reduced by 20 km/h on all roads within the PNVIF jurisdiction, excluding the Paris ring road. Authorities urge drivers to exercise extreme caution, prioritize public transportation, and plan their journeys in advance.

Challenging Weather Conditions

According to Météo-France, a weather system moving across France from the southwest to the northeast will encounter a cold air mass, leading to snowfall and, more significantly, freezing rain in areas under orange alert. This weather event is expected to start in the evening and continue through the night until warmer air takes over.

In Île-de-France, parks, gardens, and cemeteries in Paris will close at 6:00 p.m. as a precaution. Additionally, 30 departments in northern and northeastern France are under similar snow and ice alerts.

A Busy Holiday Return Weekend

With heavy traffic expected due to holiday returns, authorities stress the importance of adapting driving behavior to winter road conditions. Emergency services and firefighters are on standby to respond to accidents and incidents caused by the weather.

Road users are advised to check weather forecasts and official recommendations before traveling.