The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued a fresh alert for travellers heading to a major European holiday destination, as severe winter weather continues to cause chaos.
FCDO Update on France Travel
In an update published on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, the FCDO highlighted that ongoing frosty conditions and significant snowfall are impacting travel to and from France. The advisory states that some flights and Eurostar services have been cancelled or delayed.
The government body is urging all passengers to check their operator's latest advice before setting off, particularly if they have connecting flights. This warning comes just days after a separate major incident, when a power failure in the Channel Tunnel forced Eurostar to suspend services at London's St Pancras on New Year's Eve.
Storm Goretti Brings France to a Standstill
The disruption is being driven by a fierce winter storm, named Storm Goretti, which has collided with the region. Images from Paris show the iconic Eiffel Tower dusted with snow, while locals bundle up against the freezing temperatures.
The severe conditions mirror the icy blast that has gripped the UK in recent days, leading to blocked roads and transport paralysis in parts of France. In response to the crisis, French officials have taken drastic safety measures, including banning trucks and school buses from the roads.
Widespread Flight and Train Cancellations
The impact on air travel has been substantial. France's civil aviation authority directed airlines to cancel 40 per cent of flights at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. Meanwhile, 25 per cent of flights were axed at Orly Airport on Wednesday.
With the situation evolving rapidly, the FCDO's core message remains clear: travellers must verify the status of their journey directly with their airline or train operator to avoid being stranded. The combination of severe weather and recent technical problems underscores the potential for ongoing disruption to this popular route.
