Dozens die across Europe as cold weather blights continent

At least 50 deaths across Europe have now been linked to the cold conditions sweeping across the continent, as people as far south as the Mediterranean felt the impacts of a Siberian weather system.

As many as 21 of those who have died are from Poland alone, the majority being homeless people sleeping rough.

There has also been severe disruption to transport and public services around Europe, with schools, roads and rail services forced to close.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) issued a warning over the extreme weather, saying cold temperatures increased the risks attributed to heart and lung disease.

“Those most at risk of cold-related illness include elderly people, children, and people who have chronic diseases or physical or mental limitations,” it said.

“Frequently, poor households are the hardest hit as the poor can least afford to adequately heat their homes.

“Homeless people, and refugees and migrants can be especially vulnerable. Their risk increases if they lack adequate shelter, proper clothing, food and medical care.

“Health and social services often face the challenge of caring for an increased number of patients suffering from various cold-related illnesses. Disruptions in services and infrastructure can further indirectly aggravate the health effects.”

The freezing weather began for many across Europe last Friday. Since then, 21 people have died in Poland, six in the Czech Republic, five in Lithuania, four in France and four in Slovakia, Deutche Welle reported.

Two died in Italy, Serbia and Romania, while one death was recorded in both Slovenia and the Netherlands.

Swedish media reported that a woman who had left her home at an asylum centre with her daughter and son, aged eight and nine, was pronounced dead in the hospital after being found in a forest.

The Aftonbladet daily newspaper reported the woman was "poorly dressed" and her daughter was in intensive care. The son was found safe and sound Wednesday afternoon when temperatures in the region were about -10C.

Danish police said an 84-year-old woman with dementia became the second person to die in the country because of the cold weather. She left her home Wednesday evening and was found Thursday in a park in Roskilde, west of Copenhagen, police said.

European cities have opened emergency shelters, with the mayors of two districts in Brussels reportedly saying homeless people would be forced inside even if they were unwilling to go.

Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, said: “Cold, even in places where the temperatures are not at their lowest, can be harmful to people’s health in many ways.

“It can aggravate existing conditions and raise the risk of increased blood pressure, heart attacks and strokes. Taking preventive action can help reduce the health impacts and risks.

“WHO is carefully following the situation in countries of the European Region. Affected countries should stay alert. Measures must be taken to protect people at risk.”

Associated Press contributed to this report