A powerful Arctic cold front, bringing heavy snowfall and blizzards, virtually paralysed much of Europe in the first days of January. Snow chaos engulfed Western, Central and Eastern Europe, causing massive flight cancellations, train stoppages, traffic jams and even human casualties.
According to data from January 6-7, the Netherlands, France, Germany, Great Britain, the Balkans, and other regions were affected by the bad weather. In Amsterdam, Schiphol Airport canceled hundreds of flights due to snow on the runways, and rail service around the city was completely shut down. In Paris, buses stopped running, and Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports reduced flights by up to 40% to clear the snow. Similar problems were experienced in London, Berlin, and other capitals.
The tragedy did not spare anyone: at least six people died as a result of traffic accidents and other incidents related to ice and snow. Several fatal accidents were recorded in France, including a taxi falling into the Marne River.
Meteorologists warn that the cold spell will last until mid-January, with new snowfalls and blizzards in the Balkan region and Eastern Europe. Authorities recommend avoiding travel, working remotely, and staying tuned for updates.