Severe snowstorms hit Iran, at least 9 killed in avalanches

A raging blizzard affecting much of Iran over the past couple of days has claimed lives of at least 9 people by February 1. Fatal avalanches started on Sunday, January 26, 2017.

According to Tehran Times, snowstorms are affecting 24 Iranian provinces since January 25. Some 29 000 individuals received rescue and relief services in 241 cities, towns and villages and 2 010 were accommodated.

Fatal avalanches claimed lives of at least 9 people by February 1.

IRNA said at least 4 died when an avalanche hit porters smuggling goods across Iran-Iraq border near Sardasht on Sunday, January 26. Eyewitnesses told AlSumaria that the avalanche hit a convoy of 35 people, of which 11 died. The area was reportedly under 2 to 3 meters (6.5 – 10 feet) of snow.

Two mountain climbers were killed by an avalanche in Baneh and another one in a village in West Azerbaijan Province. Tehran Times reported two more deaths due to an avalanche in Kordestan Province.

Snow, blizzard and rain are expected to continue in almost all provinces except for those in the country's southeast.

Featured image: NASA/NOAA/DoD satellite image acquired January 26, 2017. Edit: TW