Northern Europe returned to a full on winter this week, with temperatures falling significantly below seasonal norms due to a very cold Arctic air mass. In large parts of Denmark and the southern part of Sweden a snowstorm affected traffic since Tuesday morning. Some areas received more than 40 cm (15 inches) of snow.

On Wednesday, parts of Belgium, The Netherlands and Germany will see a lot of snow and sleet. Traffic will be heavily affected.

The current cold spell, however, should be brief. With a return to spring-like temperatures expected by early next week.

This will probably mean busy days ahead for car washes in the northern and western parts of Europe. Many car owners want to get rid of the road salt and dirt on their cars as soon as possible.

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