Images of the cold wave in France in January 2024
Since Sunday January 7, France has been facing an unprecedented cold wave. Negative temperatures and widespread frosts have pushed some prefectures to activate their “Great Cold” plan. This situation has been accentuated by climate change, which has seen temperatures drop by more than 10 degrees in just a few days.
Tuesday is forecast to be the coldest, with negative temperatures across almost the entire country. Temperatures felt as low as -10°C were recorded, particularly in mountainous areas. Departments have been placed on yellow alert for snow and ice, while mountain ranges are on yellow alert for avalanches.
Faced with these extreme weather conditions, the government has taken measures to help the most vulnerable populations and the homeless. “Severe cold” plans have been activated in certain prefectures, allowing the opening of additional accommodation places for vulnerable people. However, despite the mobilization of the authorities, the situation remains worrying, particularly in the north and Pas de Calais, where populations affected by the floods are facing difficult living conditions.
It is important to emphasize that, despite global warming, cold waves remain possible. However, they have become rarer, shorter and less intense in recent decades. The current cold spell does not meet the criteria for a true “cold wave”.
In conclusion, the cold wave hitting France at the start of 2024 is a reminder that extreme weather conditions can still occur despite climate change. It is crucial to take measures to protect the most vulnerable populations and fight against the consequences of these climatic events.
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