France Faces Severe Cold and Flood Risks After Snowy Week

Subfreezing temperatures and widespread flooding persist across France as weather conditions improve slightly this weekend.

Temperatures have dropped significantly across France, with widespread morning freezes and lows ranging from -5°C to 0°C in most regions, except near the Mediterranean coast.
Seven departments remain under orange flood alerts due to overflowing rivers, including the Oise, Val-d’Oise, Eure, and Ille-et-Vilaine, with some areas experiencing significant disruptions to transportation and infrastructure.
Snow and ice conditions earlier in the week caused two deaths and dozens of injuries in northern France, with hazardous road conditions and power outages affecting thousands of households.
Weather conditions are expected to stabilize with drier and calmer days ahead, but strong winds and persistent cold will continue to affect much of the country, particularly in the northeast and near the Mediterranean.
Authorities urge caution near rivers and flooded areas, advising limited travel and vigilance for icy roads, especially in regions still recovering from recent snow and freezing rain.