Snowstorm Disrupts Europe: Six Dead, Hundreds of Flights Cancelled

A severe snowstorm has recently swept across Europe, resulting in tragic incidents and significant disruptions in travel. The harsh weather has particularly affected France and the Balkans, where authorities are taking precautions to manage the situation.

Casualties Reported in France

In France, three fatalities have been confirmed due to black ice in the Landes region. Additionally, two people lost their lives in separate road accidents in the Paris area. One incident involved a collision with a heavy goods vehicle in eastern Paris. The other occurred when a taxi driver lost control and fell into the Marne River after hitting a kerb caused by snow accumulation.

Snowstorm Impact in the Balkans

The Balkans have also experienced severe weather conditions, including heavy snow and rain. Tragically, a woman in Sarajevo died when a tree, burdened by the weight of the snow, fell on her.

Weather Alerts and Travel Disruptions

French Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot has warned of continued snow throughout Tuesday night and Wednesday. He urged citizens to limit road travel and consider working from home. France’s national weather service placed 38 districts on orange alert due to expected snow and black ice.

Travel disruptions have escalated in France. Roissy-Charles de Gaulle airport announced a 40% cancellation rate of flights on Wednesday morning, allowing staff to clear snow from the runways. Similarly, Orly airport anticipated canceling about a quarter of its flights during the same timeframe.

Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport Affected

Moreover, Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport faced considerable disruption, with more than 400 flights canceled. Passengers found themselves stranded, many unable to connect to their next flights. Long queues formed at airline counters as travelers sought information regarding the resumption of services.

• Countries affected: France, Bosnia, and the Netherlands
• Fatalities: 3 in France, 1 in Bosnia
• Flight cancellations: 40% at Roissy-Charles de Gaulle, 25% at Orly, and 400+ at Schiphol
• Weather warnings: 38 districts in France on orange alert

As Europe grapples with this snowstorm, the focus remains on safety and minimizing travel as authorities work to alleviate the impacts of the inclement weather.