Vilnius, January 12, 2024 – Lithuania is bracing for a prolonged deep freeze, with temperatures plummeting to levels not seen in two years and a rising number of reported cold-related incidents. Authorities are urging residents to take extreme precautions as the frigid conditions persist.
Frigid Temperatures and Rising Incident Reports
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A perilous cold snap is gripping Lithuania, leading to frostbite cases and, tragically, fatalities.
- At least five people have died from the cold since Saturday, January 10.
- Reports of frostbite are increasing, with the youngest victim being a 2-year-old child.
- Temperatures in Moleti dropped to -23.5 degrees Celsius on Monday night, the lowest recorded in the country in two years.
- The Lithuanian Hydrometeorological Service forecasts continued light snow and freezing temperatures through Thursday.
The emergency services have been inundated with calls related to the extreme weather. On Saturday, January 10, the Police Representative Bureau (BPC) received five reports of frostbite. That number climbed to eight on Sunday and one on Monday, according to BPC representative Vilma Juozevičiūtė.
Symptoms of Frostbite – Frostbite occurs when body tissue freezes, and most reported cases involve the feet and hands. The majority of those affected are between 40 and 80 years old, though a 2-year-old child in Kaunas was reported to have suffered frostbite to a hand on January 10, after worried parents contacted authorities.
Public Safety Advice – Police, doctors, and firefighters are collectively urging residents to dress warmly, limit outdoor exposure, and prioritize the well-being of vulnerable individuals – the elderly, those living alone, and children.
Tragic Fatalities Reported
the cold snap has already proven fatal. On Sunday, the frozen body of a 65-year-old man (born in 1959) was discovered near his home in Spiečiūnai village, Rokiškis district, with no apparent signs of foul play. A pre-trial examination is underway to determine the cause of death.
Later that evening, around 10:47 p.m., authorities in the Tauragė region found the frozen body of a 51-year-old man (born in 1972) in the yard of a residential building in Gaure.Similarly, a pre-trial investigation has been launched to ascertain the cause of death.
Forecast Calls for Continued Cold
the Lithuanian Hydrometeorological Service (LHMT) predicts continued light snow and fog on Tuesday night, with temperatures ranging from -13 to -18 degrees Celsius, and even down to -22 degrees Celsius in some areas. Wednesday will bring more snow, notably in western districts, with temperatures dropping to -10 to -15 degrees Celsius, and as low as -18 degrees Celsius in certain locations.
Thursday is expected to see widespread snowfall, becoming lighter during the day. Temperatures will remain below freezing, ranging from -8 to -13 degrees Celsius, and down to -18 degrees Celsius in the east, and -4 to -6 degrees Celsius on the coast.
Firefighters and rescuers have been busy responding to the harsh conditions, extinguishing 110 fires and conducting 120 rescue operations across Lithuania over the past three days. Tragically, one person died and another was injured during these incidents.
emergency Services Access – Authorities advise residents to avoid obstructing access to buildings and yards to ensure emergency services can reach those in need quickly.
