Bitter cold continued to cause travel problems for a second straight day across the UK, France, and the Netherlands as freezing temperatures gripped the region. AFP
A powerful winter storm swept across large parts of France this week, bringing heavy snow, ice, and freezing temperatures that disrupted daily life and travel. Dangerous road conditions led to several deadly incidents. Authorities confirmed that at least five people died in weather-related accidents as drivers struggled on snow-covered roads.
In Paris, thick snow settled on famous landmarks and rooftops, creating striking scenes but forcing officials to shut down parts of the city. Crews closed schools, public spaces, and transport routes as conditions worsened. Air travel also took a major hit. Six airports in northern and western France stopped operations for several hours after runways filled with snow.
Deep freeze grips the United Kingdom
The winter system also tightened its grip on the United Kingdom, where snow and ice caused widespread travel trouble. Northern areas recorded some of the coldest temperatures of the season, with overnight readings dropping to minus 12.5 degrees Celsius.
Rail services slowed or stopped in several regions as ice covered tracks. Air travel faced similar challenges. Liverpool John Lennon Airport closed temporarily after heavy snowfall made runway conditions unsafe. Weather forecasters warned that northern Scotland could receive up to 15 centimetres of snow, leaving some remote communities cut off from road access.
Heavy rain and cold weather hit southern Europe
Further south, the storm brought rain instead of snow. In Italy, days of steady rainfall caused the Tiber River to rise again, raising concerns in Rome. City officials cancelled public celebrations linked to the Epiphany holiday as water levels climbed and streets grew slippery.
Rome’s mayor ordered a ban on recreational and sporting activities in public spaces on Tuesday to reduce risk. Weather services warned that freezing temperatures would continue across northern Italy, increasing the chance of icy roads and travel delays.
Balkans and Adriatic coast feel the impact
Severe weather spread east into the Balkans, where snow and heavy rain disrupted transport and basic services. Parts of Serbia declared emergency measures as conditions continued to worsen. Power outages and blocked roads added pressure on local authorities.
Along the Adriatic coast, strong winds and rough seas battered coastal communities in Croatia and Montenegro. Ferry services faced delays as high waves and gusty winds made sailing unsafe.
Flights cancelled in the Netherlands
In the Netherlands, winter weather caused major disruption at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. Airport officials cancelled around 400 flights on Tuesday as crews worked to remove ice from aircraft and clear runways. Additional cancellations had already taken place a day earlier, with more snow expected.
Rail travel also suffered. Frozen track switches and a software issue disrupted train services nationwide. Although limited service resumed later in the day, many routes around Amsterdam remained closed. Rail officials urged people to travel only when necessary as the cold spell continued.
