Poland Faces Rising Winter Deaths as Hypothermia Toll Doubles

(MENAFN) Poland is preparing for the coldest night of the winter as authorities report at least 38 deaths from hypothermia so far this season, more than double the 16 recorded during the same period last year.

Deputy Interior Minister Wiesław Szczepanski noted that the toll could rise, with post-mortem results still pending in two additional cases. Separately, 54 deaths have been reported this winter from carbon monoxide poisoning, often linked to malfunctioning heating systems.

Severe frost warnings are in effect across almost the entire country, with temperatures expected to plunge to between minus 20°C and minus 30°C in many areas. Szczepanski, speaking after an emergency briefing with services at the Government Security Centre, said that the night from Sunday to Monday ranks among the coldest in recent weeks, with the harshest conditions anticipated in eastern regions.

“In Suwalki, temperatures could drop to minus 29°C tonight, while the felt temperature may reach between minus 36°C and minus 38°C,” he said.

Emergency services have intensified efforts to protect vulnerable populations. Thousands of police officers are searching abandoned buildings, bin shelters, and other locations where people may seek refuge. Heated emergency tents have been set up, and certain railway stations remain open overnight to provide shelter.

The extreme cold has also disrupted daily life, with some schools cancelling classes in affected regions.

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