Heavy snowfall causes record traffic chaos

Belgium is suffering record traffic jams as a consequence of heavy snowfall, which is causing transport chaos throughout the country. Office buildings in Brussels are reportedly only partly full as employees struggle to get to work. The country had a record 1,600km of traffic jams by 9.00 as snowdrifts turned roads slippery and reduced vision. A strong wind made conditions even tougher. Thousands of rail passengers were left stranded on snowed-in platforms after trains were cancelled. Eurostar is asking passengers to postpone their journeys if possible, and no Thalys trains are running. Flights from Brussels airport are severely affected by delays and cancellations. Snowfall is expected to ease off before midday, with traffic conditions due to improve by early afternoon. 

(AP)