Paris, Ile-de-France – The Prefect of Police, also the Prefect of the Paris Defense and Security Zone, has activated Level 3 of the Snow-Ice Plan for the Ile-de-France region. This decision comes in response to current snowfall and forecasts of negative temperatures overnight. The plan introduces significant traffic restrictions across the region, impacting both general traffic and heavy goods vehicles, and has led to the suspension of school transportation in Seine-et-Marne.
School Transport Suspended in Seine-et-Marne
In a direct consequence of the activated plan, the Prefect of Seine-et-Marne has issued an order suspending all school transport for Tuesday, January 6, 2026. This includes special school circuits, transport for students with disabilities, and regular bus services primarily serving educational establishments throughout the department.
Widespread Traffic Restrictions Implemented
As of 2:00 PM today, January 5, 2026, several restrictive measures have been put in place to manage traffic conditions:
- Speed Limit Reduction: The speed limit for all vehicles has been reduced to 80 km/h across the region.
- Overtaking Ban for Heavy Vehicles: Vehicles exceeding 3.5 tonnes are prohibited from overtaking on major structural axes.
- Restrictions for Heavy Goods and Hazardous Materials Vehicles:
- These vehicles are banned from circulating on the entire structural network of Ile-de-France.
- A ‘grand detour’ strategy is being implemented, where affected vehicles will be intercepted by law enforcement and directed to bypass Ile-de-France via the East or guided to temporary storage areas.
Road users are strongly advised to limit their travel and, if possible, to anticipate their return this afternoon to avoid worsening conditions.
Official Directives and Public Information
The prefectural order from the Prefect of Seine-et-Marne detailing the road restrictions is available for public consultation. Additionally, a press release from the Prefecture of Police confirms the activation of the Level 3 Snow-Ice Plan. These documents provide comprehensive information on the measures and their implications for residents and commuters.
Impact on Daily Life
The activation of such a high level snow-ice plan underscores the severity of the weather conditions and their potential to disrupt daily life in one of Europe’s busiest regions. The measures are designed to ensure public safety, prevent accidents, and facilitate the work of emergency services. Residents are urged to stay informed through official channels and to exercise extreme caution if travel is unavoidable.
Broader Context of Weather Preparedness
This incident highlights the ongoing efforts by regional authorities to manage and mitigate the effects of adverse weather. The Snow-Ice Plan is a critical tool for coordinating responses across various departments and ensuring a unified approach to public safety during challenging climatic events. Such plans involve multiple agencies, including meteorological services, law enforcement, and transportation authorities, all working to minimize disruption and protect citizens.
Further updates on the situation will be provided as conditions evolve.
Source: [seine-et-marne.gouv.fr](https://www.seine-et-marne.gouv.fr/Actualites/Activation-du-Plan-neige-verglas-de-niveau-3-Restriction-de-la-circulation-en-Ile-de-France)
