Istanbul prepares for first snowfall as cold wave sweeps Türkiye

Meteorologists warn of an approaching cold front that will bring snow, rain and icy conditions to various regions of Türkiye, including the season's first snowfall for Istanbul.

The Meteorology General Directorate has issued alerts for potential risks, including avalanches in eastern areas and icy roads nationwide.

An aerial view of the Sumela Monastery, museum and former Greek Orthodox monastery in the Pontic Mountains, and its surroundings, located within the boundaries of the Altindere Valley National Park, after the snowfall in Macka district of Trabzon, Türkiye, Dec. 15, 2024. (AA Photo)

Eastern Türkiye endures extreme cold, avalanche risks

Eastern Türkiye is currently facing some of the lowest temperatures recorded this winter. Last night, Erzincan's Otlukbeli district recorded minus 25.5 degrees Celsius (minus 13.9 degrees Fahrenheit), marking it as the coldest area in the country.

Other regions, including Erzurum at minus 18.3 degrees Celsius (minus 0.9 degrees Fahrenheit) and Ardahan's Gole district at minus 18.5 degrees Celsius (minus 1.3 degrees Fahrenheit), also experienced severe cold. Many residents are staying indoors to avoid these harsh conditions.

Meteorologists have identified key risks in steep and high-altitude areas of the eastern Black Sea and Anatolia regions, including:

• Icy roads and reduced visibility because of frost and fog.
• Heightened avalanche dangers in mountainous areas.
• Potential disruptions to transportation and travel.

Experts advised travelers must exercise extreme caution in these regions.

Istanbul first snowfall

Cars and a motor courier move in traffic during snowfall in Istanbul, Turkiye on Nov. 23, 2024. (AA Photo)

Rain and snow to spread across Türkiye over weekend

While eastern regions endure extreme cold, western and central parts of the country are bracing for rain and snow.

A cold front moving from the west will bring rain to cities such as Izmir, Aydin, and Mugla. By Sunday, snowfall is expected to cover parts of central and eastern Anatolia.

Dr. Guven Ozdemir, a meteorology expert, described this winter as colder and wetter than last year. He noted:

• "Cold air corridors from Siberia and the Balkans are opening, increasing the likelihood of snowfall across Türkiye."
• "Significant snow events are particularly expected during the second and final weeks of January."

A general view of trees covered with snow during snowfall in Istanbul, Turkiye on Nov. 23, 2024. (AA Photo)

Istanbul, Marmara region anticipate colder weather, first snowfall

The Marmara region, including Istanbul, has experienced relatively mild weather so far this winter.

However, meteorologists predict a change. According to Prof. Dr. Orhan Sen, Istanbul could see rain this weekend, followed by a drop in temperatures. He explained:

• "Istanbul’s first snowfall may occur after Jan. 10 as cold air from Scandinavia and Siberia moves south."
• "Heavy snow is unlikely because of urban factors like the heat island effect."

Dr. Ozdemir added, "Population density and emissions from vehicles and industry create a shield over the city, reducing the likelihood of significant snow accumulation."

A pedestrian holding a walk on the Galata bridge during heavy rain in Eminonu district of Istanbul, Türkiye on Nov. 21, 2024. (AFP Photo)

Authorities issue safety guidelines for severe winter weather

Officials are urging residents to take necessary precautions as winter conditions worsen. Key safety measures include:

• Avoiding travel in avalanche-prone areas of the east.
• Preparing for icy roads and poor visibility in central and western regions.
• Monitoring weather forecasts for timely updates and changes.

The Meteorology General Directorate has stressed the importance of preparation, warning that severe weather could disrupt daily life and transportation.

With the first major cold wave of 2025 approaching, authorities remind residents to prioritize safety and stay informed.