On January 8, 2023, the Dordogne region experienced dangerous icy road conditions, leading to significant transportation disruptions. Despite the yellow alert for ice and snow being lifted, many drivers encountered treacherous, icy roads.
Dordogne Ice: Roads Freeze Over, Halting School Buses
The early morning commute was particularly hazardous, with numerous drivers describing the roads as resembling ice rinks. The most affected areas were in the northern and eastern parts of the Dordogne department, primarily on smaller, secondary roads.
Major Road Closures and Hazards
- Around 20 vehicles were stranded on Departmental Road 81 between Thiviers and Sarrazac.
- Departmental Road 75 was closed near Savignac-Lédrier due to severe conditions.
- Roads remained slippery, causing multiple accidents and difficulties in navigation.
Efforts to Manage Road Conditions
Salt trucks were deployed in various locations, including La Douze, Nontron, and Brantôme. However, one truck ended up in a ditch in Thiviers after an accident.
Impact on School Transportation
The harsh weather led to the suspension of school transportation in the northern Brantôme area. Both the Thenon college and local services in Villars and Lanouaille were suspended, as officials deemed the roads too dangerous for buses.
Train Service Disruptions
Train services also experienced delays. Notably, the train bound for Limoges that was scheduled for 7:38 AM was delayed by 45 minutes. Other regional trains heading to Bordeaux faced similar delays. An obstacle between La Coquille and Thiviers halted train traffic, further complicating the situation.
The SNCF indicated that the train from Limoges would now depart from Périgueux instead of Thiviers due to the ongoing disruptions.
Final Notes on Safety Precautions
Many were caught off guard by the icy conditions, believing the cold snap had ended. Rain had created a deceptive sheen on the roads, concealing the ice below. Authorities urged all motorists to exercise caution and reduce their speed while driving.
