Snow made its way across much of northern France on Monday, January 5, 2026. And this snowfall episode isn't over yet; Météo France has forecast additional snowflakes for January 7, 2026. In fact, 38 departments are currently under a yellow alert for snow and ice this Wednesday. All of Paris and the Île-de-France region are affected by this warning. According to the meteorological service, “all precipitation will fall directly as snow that will immediately settle on the ground,” due to negative temperatures expected across much of the Île-de-France area in the morning. Over the course of this snowfall event, Météo France anticipates total accumulations of 3 to 5 centimeters, possibly reaching 7 centimeters in some areas, with the greatest amounts expected in the outer suburbs, or “large crown suburbs.”
As a result, drivers are advised to exercise caution on the roads. Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot even recommends "postponing" travel to Île-de-France and "prioritizing remote work for those who can." It’s worth noting that traffic jams hit a record high this Monday, with over 1,000 kilometers of congestion reported in Île-de-France around 5:30 p.m.
The prefectures of Yvelines, Essonne, and Seine-et-Marne had already announced on Monday evening the suspension of school transportation for January 6, 2026. Due to a new snowstorm forecasted for this Wednesday, the Seine-et-Marne prefecture has extended its ban for Wednesday, January 7. "Additional snowfall is expected on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. Weather Agency France has issued an orange alert for snow and ice. Snow accumulations could range from 3 to 5 centimeters, locally up to 7 cm. The snow will fall on frozen ground. [...] In this context, the Seine-et-Marne prefecture renews the ban on school transport for Wednesday, January 7, 2026, throughout the day and across the entire department," the Prefecture states on its website. As a result, school transport is suspended everywhere in Seine-et-Marne this Wednesday.
Snow and Ice: Paris and Île-de-France Once Again in Orange Alert This Wednesday
Due to a new winter-related disturbance and falling temperatures, Météo France has issued an orange alert for snow and ice across 38 departments in mainland France on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. Paris and the entire Île-de-France region are affected by this latest warning, following Monday's alert. So, what exactly should residents expect this Wednesday in the Paris region? Here's a look at the forecast. [Read more]
Official website
www.seine-et-marne.gouv.fr
