Heavy snowfall and deadly blizzards have lashed Europe, forcing airports to cancel or delay flights around the continent.

The snowstorms are unusual for much of Europe at this time of year. They've left roads blocked and thousands of drivers stranded and schools shut. Weather agencies are predicting the biting cold will continue in parts of the region. Authorities in Ireland have issued a severe red weather alert and urged people to stay home. All flights have been halted in and out of Dublin Airport. Authorities say they are unlikely to resume until Saturday. The death toll Europe-wide now surpasses 55.