Heavy snow hits eastern Turkey

Many of the survivors of the magnitude 7.2 earthquake are still living in tents, despite the snow and ice [AP]

A wintry storm that brought much of southeast Europe to a standstill, has now produced severe weather across much of Turkey.

The snow and icy conditions led to an increase in car accidents across the country, including in the capital Ankara.

The eastern province of Van was also hit by the heavy snow, the same region that was struck by a devastating earthquake last year.

A 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck 19 kilometres to the northeast of the city of Van in October last year. More than 600 people were killed, and many of the survivors are still living in tented communities.

The heavy snow has made conditions for the survivors increasingly difficult and the temperatures are also causing problems.

The forecast minimum temperature on Sunday night in the city of Van is expected to drop to minus 10 C. The temperature away from the city, in the surrounding mountains will be even lower.

This temperature could easily be life-threatening unless the residents have sufficient clothing and heating.

With more snow forecast over the next few days, the conditions are unlikely to improve significantly over the next few days.