Snowstorm hits France: 5 dead and traffic completely paralyzed
France is experiencing a wave of severe weather and sudden snowstorms that have brought transportation to a near standstill and resulted in the deaths of at least five people in separate incidents related to vehicles skidding and icy roads. This weather event has sparked widespread debate about the accuracy of weather forecasts and the preparedness of infrastructure to handle such extreme conditions.
Details of casualties and accidents
French authorities have confirmed that the death toll from icy road accidents has risen to five. On Tuesday, three people died in two separate incidents in the southwest of the country, while another driver died after his car plunged into the Marne River near Paris. These tragic accidents come just a day after a truck driver was killed when his vehicle skidded on thick ice, also in the Paris region, highlighting the dangers of driving in such conditions.
Government criticism of the meteorological department
In a notable statement, French Transport Minister Philippe Tabarro acknowledged shortcomings in the weather forecast, indicating that the meteorological service had not anticipated such severe conditions. He called for a review of the mechanisms used to issue weather warnings to ensure public safety in the future. Despite the criticism, the minister pointed out that the proactive measures taken Monday night in the Paris region had contributed somewhat to easing traffic congestion and preventing further accidents.
Paralysis in transport networks and airports
The damage was not limited to roads; it extended to the railway network and air traffic. The national railway company announced the suspension of several lines in western France and reduced train service in other areas. Regarding air transport, takeoffs and landings at the two main airports, Charles de Gaulle and Orly, were affected, despite 250 snowplows being placed on high alert to clear the runways.
The climatic context and its impact on unusual regions
Complicating matters further was the heavy snowfall in areas not typically accustomed to such harsh conditions, such as Brittany and the Vendée in western France. The geography and climate of these regions left their inhabitants and infrastructure ill-prepared to handle the snow accumulation, leading to school transport disruptions and paralyzing daily life. The meteorological service described the situation as temperatures plummeting to between -3 and -10 degrees Celsius, turning roads into veritable "ice rinks.".
Expectations of continued unrest
Weather forecasts from Météo-France indicate continued instability, with snow and hail expected across large parts of northern France, potentially prolonging traffic disruptions. Authorities are working to gradually restore bus services in Paris, while continuing to urge citizens to exercise extreme caution while traveling.
