France, Belgium: Adverse winter weather forecast across mainland France and Belgium through at least Jan. 18

Event

Adverse winter weather conditions are forecast across much of mainland France and Belgium through at least Jan. 18. Heavy rainfall is forecast in southwestern France and intermittent snowfall is likely in the Massif Central region. Hazardous travel conditions are likely due to icy roads and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow.

As of early Jan. 17, authorities have issued the following weather warnings:

• Orange snow/ice warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Belgium as well as far southwestern and eastern Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes, northwestern Bourgogne-Franche-Comte, southwestern Grand Est, and far northeastern Occitanie regions in France.

• Orange rain/flood and strong wind warnings: far southern Nouvelle-Aquitaine Region in France.

Yellow thunderstorm, flood, snow, and ice warnings are in place across the rest of mainland France. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the days.

Transport
The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions in the region over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roadways in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highway if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Flight delays and cancellations are likely due to ground stops and deicing operations at regional airports.

Advice

Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where heavy snowfall is forecast. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. Plan accordingly for delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

MeteoAlarm
Meteo France
Royal Meteorological Institute of Belgium