Europe's winter chill

Making the best of a bad situation in Amsterdam.

For the first time in two years, residents of the Dutch capital hit the ice on the city's canal system, as a cold front sweeps across Europe.

In Croatia the bitterly cold weather is causing widespread disruptions to transport and power services. Hundreds have already lost their lives in Eastern Europe.

In Romania, some 10 days after the cold snap first hit, citizens cope with another barrage of bad weather.

While dozens of roads have been closed down, in Bucharest residents are still hoping to drive.

In Italy, snowfall on the Vatican.

The Pope hopes for better times

(SOUNDBITE) (Italian) POPE BENEDICT SAYING:

"I wish you all a good Sunday. The snow is beautiful but let's hope that spring will come soon. Have a good Sunday!"

So far few signs of spring as severe winter weather persists.

Deborah Lutterbeck, Reuters