The head of Tehran’s Department of the Environment has warned of cold weather and icy conditions presenting problems at animal sanctuaries in the capital.

Hamid Rahati has warned that the sudden drop in temperature predicted for the coming week will demand special care at zoos and animal and bird parks across the city.

The warning from Tehran’s Department of the Environment comes after earlier cold and icy conditions led to the loss of many birds at the Shiraz zoo.

Meanwhile, reports from the rest of the country indicate that schools in 13 provinces have been closed due to cold and heavy snowfall, ISNA reports.

Tehran schools have not been closed down, but Saadabad Complex, a tourist area in the city’s north end, has been closed due to heavy snowfall and slippery conditions on access roads.

Reports also indicate that drivers on the roads in Isfahan, Qom, Delijan and Markazi provinces are facing severe blizzards.

Heavy snowfall is predicted to continue in these regions for the next two days, but in Tehran only light snow is expected.

Radio Zamaneh