At least 47 people have died in the last three weeks because of the severe cold and heavy snowfall in northern Afghanistan’s Jowzjan province, an official said on Tuesday.

Access to health centres was limited as roads were closed off because of the snowfall, Rahmatullah Hashir, district governor of Darzab said.

“Ten women gave birth to dead babies as they had no access to health facilities in past few weeks, adding that two other children were killed by an avalanche while traveling from one village to another,’’ said Hashir.

Mohammad Reza, a spokesperson for the provincial governor, said: “We are trying to provide those harmed by the cold weather with immediate necessary assistance.’’

According to Reza, Darzab has one hospital and seven mobile health clinics operational, but access to the facilities is hindered due to mountainous areas blocked by snow and the presence of insurgents.