This winter in Latvia has been particularly harsh, leading to 20 reported deaths from hypothermia as of mid-February, according to data from the State Forensic Medical Examination Center. The month of January saw the onset of prolonged freezing temperatures, often dipping below -20 degrees Celsius, which significantly contributed to these tragic fatalities. A total of 12 deaths were attributed to hypothermia in January alone, involving primarily men and women aged between 27 and 72 years old, highlighting the vulnerability of various age groups during extreme weather.

Most of the deaths were outside, with individuals found in public places, such as streets, parks, and near building entrances, while some died in abandoned vehicles throughout different regions in Latvia. Additionally, five cases are reported where individuals succumbed to hypothermia inside their homes, particularly in unheated residences. The presence of alcohol was a factor in some cases, with tests revealing its involvement in four instances, while results from four other cases remain pending, indicating the complex factors surrounding these fatalities.

As the winter season continues and temperatures fluctuate, there is a growing concern for the safety of those most at risk in Latvia. Local authorities and communities may need to implement further measures to protect vulnerable individuals from the dangers posed by severe cold to prevent more tragedies from occurring.