France is bracing for severe winter weather as Météo-France places several regions under orange alerts for snow, ice, and flooding.

The departments of Aveyron, Lozère, Haute-Loire, and Ardèche are expecting heavy snowfall, with accumulations reaching up to 80 cm at higher altitudes.

This will make travel conditions hazardous, especially in forested areas where falling trees could worsen the situation.

Meanwhile, the Somme remains on orange alert for flooding, with water levels rising steadily since mid-January.

In the north and west, 26 departments are under yellow alerts for snow and ice, though the snow is unlikely to settle for long.

Residents are urged to exercise caution as the weather continues to disrupt daily life across the country.