South America hit by deadly cold snap

Buenos Aires: An intense cold front is rearing its head across South America, killing dozens, closing down highways, and killing cattle across the Andes.

At least 26 people have died in Argentina from a combination of exposure to harsh climates, poisoning from carbon monoxide inhalation, and other factors, according to reports.

The front, which set in on Saturday, has remained over much of the countries in the southern hemisphere, which are in the height of winter now.

As authorities respond to shelter for thousands in need, the cold snap could wreak havoc on farmers for months to come.

Worst drought

Argentina is just coming out of one of its worst droughts in five decades, which saw cows dying and grassland shrivelled last year.

In neighbouring Paraguay, authorities say approximately 1,000 cattle have frozen to death.