Deadly Freeze: 10 Fatalities in Ukraine Due to Freezing Temperatures
Severe Winter Weather Conditions Create Chaos in Ukraine
The recent cold snap in Ukraine has caused widespread chaos and disruption in several regions across the country. Cities such as Odessa, Kiev, Mikolaiv, Cherkasy, Kirovograd, and Kharkiv have all been negatively impacted by the extreme weather conditions.
According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine, heavy snowfall and storms have led to the closure of 14 highways, as well as power outages in 16 regions. The situation was particularly dire in the Odessa region, where snow depth reached 1.5 meters, resulting in 849 stranded vehicles and the need to rescue nearly 2,500 individuals, including 162 children.
In addition to the challenges in Odessa, the Mikolaiv region also experienced significant difficulties, with snow depths reaching up to 2 meters and 10 highways being closed. Emergency response teams have been working to assist at least 75 stranded vehicles in the area.
Similarly, in the Cherkasy region, efforts have been made to move cargo vehicles to temporary parks and establish mobile heating stations to provide relief to those affected by the harsh conditions.
The Kirovograd region has also been heavily impacted, with nearly 300 people and 164 vehicles requiring rescue from the severe snowfall.
Tragically, the extreme weather has resulted in the deaths of 10 individuals in several regions, including Odessa, Kharkiv, Mikolaiv, and Kiev. Additionally, 23 people, including 2 children, have been hospitalized due to symptoms of hypothermia.
While ongoing efforts are being made to address the aftermath of the adverse weather, reports indicate that 8 roads remain closed in the Mikolaiv and Kirovograd regions. Furthermore, power outages are still affecting 411 settlements in 11 regions across the country.
The situation is evolving, and emergency response centers have been set up to coordinate the relief efforts in the affected areas. As the Ukrainian government continues to work tirelessly to address the consequences of the severe winter weather, residents are urged to take necessary precautions and stay safe amidst these challenging conditions.
