Snow, Ice, and Flooding: Seven Departments on Orange Alert

This Thursday, January 9, a significant winter weather episode is affecting northern France, with heavy snowfall and flooding risks in several departments. Météo-France has placed seven departments under an orange alert for two types of hazards: snow-ice and flooding.

Snow and Ice Alert in Nord and Pas-de-Calais

The departments of Nord and Pas-de-Calais have been under an orange alert for snow and ice since 3 p.m. on Wednesday. This alert remains in effect until midday on Thursday. Snowfall is occurring north of a line from Abbeville to Valenciennes, accumulating on the ground with totals ranging from 2 to 7 cm and reaching up to 15 cm in higher areas, such as the Boulonnais region.

These conditions have made travel difficult and even hazardous, especially in Pas-de-Calais, where snow-covered roads complicate movement. Consequently, heavy goods vehicles have been banned from secondary roads in both departments until midday Thursday. Additionally, school and intercity bus services have been suspended.

Flooding Alert in Five Departments

The departments of Ille-et-Vilaine, Calvados, Eure, Seine-Maritime, and Oise are under an orange alert for flooding, with the risk of significant overflow in several areas. The Seiche River in Ille-et-Vilaine, along with five sections monitored by Vigicrues, is particularly at risk.

In Calvados, a rain-snow weather front is expected to pass through, exacerbating already high water levels. Vigicrues anticipates significant overflows starting in the afternoon along the middle and lower Orne River, including the area around Caen, with potential flood levels comparable to or exceeding those of January 2018.

A Notable but Not Exceptional Winter Episode

Météo-France describes this episode as “not exceptional” but significant enough to disrupt travel conditions. Snowfall accumulations are expected to range from 5 to 10 cm overall, with local peaks of up to 20 cm in some parts of Pas-de-Calais.

Authorities are urging caution and reminding residents to follow safety guidelines, particularly drivers and those living near flood-prone areas. Stay updated on the situation through the latest bulletins from Météo-France and Vigicrues.