Up to 16,000 households in Silesia, southern Poland, are without heating and hot water after a major pipeline failure. 

The damage, which occurred at 06.00 CET, has affected 70,000 people in the southern city of Katowice, depending on reports.

Inhabitants of Katowice can expect heating and hot water   - which is delivered to most homes in Poland via central distribution plants - is to be restored by evening, say authorities. (mg)