After an unseasonably mild period, the Rhône region, including Lyon, is bracing for a significant drop in temperatures and potential snowfall during Christmas week. Météo-France indicates that an anticyclone positioned over Northern Europe will direct a much colder north-easterly air stream towards France, bringing a dramatic shift in weather conditions.
Temperatures Plummeting Throughout the Week
Temperatures in the Rhône region remained mild on Monday, December 22, ranging from 9 to 11°C in the afternoon, with Lyon reaching 11°C. However, a noticeable drop is anticipated from Tuesday, with afternoon temperatures falling to between 5 and 7°C across the department.
Christmas Eve Forecast: Frost and Near-Freezing Conditions
Christmas Eve, Thursday, December 24, will see chilly mornings with temperatures between 1 and 4°C, persisting into the afternoon. Frost is expected overnight in the Monts du Lyonnais, while Lyon will experience barely positive temperatures, hovering around 1°C.
On Christmas Day, Friday, December 25, temperatures will remain low, starting at -1°C to 2°C in the morning, rising to 3-4°C in the afternoon. Météo-France predicts sub-zero temperatures in the northern Rhône and the Monts du Lyonnais.
Snowfall Expected on Christmas Eve
Could this year bring a white Christmas to the Rhône? Light snowfall is anticipated on December 24 across the department.
Specific Areas to See Snow
Snowflakes are expected as early as Wednesday morning in the Saint-Symphorien-sur-Coize area. By evening, snowfall is predicted for Lyon, Saint-Symphorien-sur-Coize, Pusignan, and L’Arbresle. During Christmas Eve night, from Wednesday to Thursday, Météo-France also forecasts snowflakes in the areas of Lyon, Thizy, Saint-Symphorien-sur-Coize, L’Arbresle, Pusignan, Soucieu-en-Jarrest, and Vienne in northern Isère.
Impact and Preparations
The sudden change in weather conditions follows a period of three weeks of unusually mild weather. Residents are advised to prepare for colder temperatures and potential travel disruptions due to snow. Local authorities have not yet issued specific advisories regarding road conditions, but commuters are encouraged to monitor forecasts and exercise caution.
The announcement of snow for Christmas has generated considerable interest, with many hoping for a picturesque white Christmas. However, the focus remains on the practical implications of the cold snap for daily life and travel.
This weather event is part of a broader pattern across France, with intense rainfall, cold, and snow risks being monitored by Météo-France. The shift to colder, wintry conditions is a stark contrast to the recent mild December, prompting residents to adjust their plans for the festive season.
Source: https://actu.fr/auvergne-rhone-alpes/lyon_69123/des-chutes-de-neige-annoncees-la-semaine-de-noel-dans-le-rhone-les-secteurs-concernes_63608110.html
