Police in Afghanistan say more than 250 people have been killed in recent avalanches, triggered by heavy snowfall. Officials say that number is expected to rise, with cold weather and difficult conditions hampering rescue efforts.

Several different avalanches occurred between Tuesday and Thursday this week, following days of heavy snow across the country.

Panjshir province, north of Kabul, was the worst hit... where at least 186 people are known to have died. Hundreds of people remain cut off, with many roads completely blocked by deep snow.

In some parts of the province, entire villages have been buried under snow. Rescue missions are ongoing in several areas... many injured people have been taken by helicopter to an international hospital in Anaba district.