A powerful snowstorm has hit the Italian region of Piedmont.
Social media has been filled with incredible images showing buildings and cars covered in snow, while local services warn of blocked roads and a high avalanche risk.
In just 24 hours, up to one and a half meters of new snow fell in some areas.
The scenes are dramatic - residents are forced to dig tunnels to reach the doors of their homes, according to local media.
One of the worst-hit areas is the famous Prato Nevoso ski resort, 1480 meters above sea level, which has practically disappeared under a layer of snow after more than 48 hours of continuous rainfall.
All access roads to the area remain blocked and the situation remains very serious.
Despite the chaotic conditions and large amounts of snow, the good news is that so far there are no reports of injuries or fatalities. /Telegraph/
