Extreme snowfall caused chaos in parts of Europe this week, bringing some communities in Germany and Austria to a grinding halt. Here is a look at of some of the areas most affected by this severe winter weather.
Extreme snowfall caused chaos in parts of Europe this week, bringing some communities in Germany and Austria to a grinding halt.
Up to three metres of snow fell in parts of Austria alone.
Alpine regions remain on high alert as freezing temperatures and more heavy snow is expected to slam Central Europe in the coming days.
Two German skiers were killed by avalanches in the Austrian Alps while several weather-related traffic incidents claimed casualties as well.
The Bulgarian Red Cross found the bodies of two snowboarders - one from the town of Yambol and the other from the capital Sofia - after an avalanche swept through the Pirin Mountains near the Bansko ski resort.
At least 21 weather-related deaths have been reported throughout Europe over the past week, according to the Associated Press.
German and Austrian troops have been deployed throughout Bavaria to assist residents still trapped by the snow.
Here is a look at of some of the areas most affected by this severe winter weather.