More than 40 million people in Siberia are suffering from the severest cold spell in the last 50 years, Aid to the Church in Need reported yesterday. With temperatures as low as minus-56 degrees gas supply systems have broken down in many localities. Aid to the Church in Need is already supporting the religious congregations in this region. With this spell of freezing weather they will be increasing their assistance.
Street children are among the first victims of the big freeze.
The state hospital in Irkutsk is overrun with victims of frostbite and cold. The social services are not able to cope with this crisis. The St Charles Borromeo sisters have already taken in 40 children, and helping others who come to the door. They are also visiting the elderly and sick. The Sisters of Our Lady's House, supported by Aid to the Church in Need, are also working with the homeless.