Europe under worst cold spell in years; 160 dead

New Delhi: An extreme cold wave across Europe over the past few days has left 160 people dead in its wake. The mercury plunged to record lows throughout the continent, with Bulgaria recording its lowest temperature in over a century.

Meanwhile, Poland, Romania and Latvia are dealing with temperatures as low as minus 32 degrees celcius.

In Ukraine, health officials claim that 63 people died after literally freezing on the streets, while trying to reach one of the 2,000 temporary shelters set up by the government.

Met officials have warned that temperatures could drop further.

A strong high pressure area named "Dieter" is currently bringing down the frigid Siberian air and keeping Europe in the teeth of its worst cold spell in years.