Saturday under an anticyclone: ​​persistent grey skies in the north, bright sunshine in the south
Saturday under an anticyclone: ​​persistent grey skies in the north, bright sunshine in the south

This Saturday follows the great weather tradition of December, with a very marked contrast between the north and south of the country. Under the influence of a firmly established anticyclone, low clouds and fog dominate a large part of the northern half, while the southern regions enjoy much brighter weather, sometimes almost spring-like in the afternoon.

From early morning, overcast skies prevail across much of the country. Dense fog, at times, reduces visibility from the Pays de la Loire to Alsace, including Limousin and Burgundy. These low clouds often remain trapped near the ground and struggle to dissipate. A few sunny spells persist, however, near the English Channel and at higher altitudes, above the cloud cover. Conversely, the southeast benefits from drier air conditions and a land breeze, allowing for a clear return of sunshine. Morning temperatures remain mild for this time of year, generally between 4 and 8°C.

As the afternoon progresses, the contrast intensifies. Gray skies persist in the north, where low clouds continue to dominate, except along the English Channel coast, which is more breezy and sometimes brighter. In the south, however, sunshine prevails, particularly in the Mediterranean, Provence, the Cévennes, and the higher elevations. Conditions are ideal for outings and Christmas markets.