France braces for icy snap after flood in north of country.

As five northern departments in France remain on high flood alert, a new weather challenge emerges with forecasts predicting a significant drop in temperatures across the country. Pas-de-Calais, in northern France, is under the highest flood alert, and the recovery of a man's body in a partially submerged car adds to the severity.

Although floodwaters along the River Aa are receding, the département is still under the highest 'red' alert. Four additional northern départements – Ardennes, Aisne, Meuse, and Nord – are under orange weather warnings, the second-highest level. These alerts are expected to persist at least until Friday, according to Météo-France.

In Pas-de-Calais, 1,299 homes in 189 communes are affected, with rivers like Aa, Liane, Hem, Canche, Lys-Plaine, Lys-Plaine, Lys-Amont, and Lawe-Clarence witnessing flooding. The region has experienced flooding for the third time since November, with precipitation levels significantly exceeding those of the same period in 2022.

Overnight, 450 firefighters and additional personnel were mobilized, conducting 115 evacuations and bringing the total to 371 since Sunday. Further challenges lie ahead as northern and northwestern France is expected to face more rain and strong winds on Thursday.

Adding to the concerns, a temperature drop is anticipated from Friday morning, with temperatures not rising above 0 to 2 degrees Celsius by Sunday dawn across most of the country. Widespread morning frosts, reaching as low as -5 degrees Celsius in the Massif Central and eastern regions, are expected throughout the week. Mountainous areas may see snow, and higher altitudes could experience temperatures as low as -10 degrees Celsius during the weekend.