Storms and cold weather hampered search and rescue efforts in earthquake-hit areas of Turkey and Syria in the last 24 hours.

Strong winds and heavy rain, as well as below-average "bitterly cold" temperatures, are making the "race against time" rescue operation in Turkey and Syria even more difficult.

Storm Barbara brought strong winds, heavy rain and even snow to the devastated region, with daytime temperatures several degrees below average - leaving rescuers facing wet and freezing conditions as they work against the clock in the search for survivors.