While several northern and eastern departments of France are experiencing a significant winter episode, the Hauts-de-France region is at the forefront of a polar offensive that could last several days. It's a clear reminder that winter is here to stay this time!
Chilly temperatures lasting until Wednesday
Since this Monday, Lille residents are waking up to temperatures well below zero. The minimum temperatures regularly drop below -5 °C, with some areas in the North reaching as low as -7 °C, especially in the inland regions. During the day, the thermometer barely climbs above 0 °C, creating a persistently frosty atmosphere.
According to Météo France and La Chaîne Météo, this dry, intense cold is expected to stick around at least until Wednesday. Frosty conditions are widespread in the mornings, and the lack of real thaw during the day increases the risk of slippery roads.
especially in the early hours.
Possible snow in Lille and the surrounding areas
A winter disturbance is currently moving across the north of the country. During the night from Sunday to Monday, snow showers have already affected several areas in Nord and Pas-de-Calais. The forecasts still predict light but regular snowfall in Lille, Dunkirk, Calais, Hazebrouck, or Arras.
Given the negative temperatures, this snow could settle on the ground, even in small amounts. The yellow alert for snow and icy conditions remains in place, and driving conditions could be tricky, especially on Tuesday morning. Some more exposed areas may see the ground turn white for a longer duration during this period.
The heart of the cold snap from Monday to Wednesday
According to weather experts, the coldest period of this episode is expected between Monday and Wednesday. A vast mass of polar air is currently descending on France, significantly affecting the northeastern regions. The cold will be quite intense!Departments may experience local cold waves, with very cold nights and days that won’t warm up much at all. In Lille and the Hauts-de-France region, this event could be one of the most significant of the early winter, both in terms of its duration and the intensity of the cold.
After the cold, a wetter change
Starting from the second half of the week, temperatures might begin to rise slightly. However, this warming won’t mean more pleasant conditions. The weather models suggest a shift towards a more humid atmosphere, with precipitation likely to turn snow into cold rain.
In the meantime, caution is the name of the game. Frost, snow, and black ice could continue to complicate travel for several days in the Lille metropolitan area.