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Türkiye is entering an unstable winter period as strong southerly lodos winds (blowing from the southwest) weaken and colder air advances from the northwest.
Meteorological authorities warn that this shift will bring heavy rain, storms and widespread snowfall across much of the country, with Istanbul expected to face its most significant snow event of the season early next week.
The General Directorate of Meteorology and Istanbul’s Disaster Coordination Center (AKOM) issued successive warnings on Thursday, citing risks ranging from transport disruptions to sharp temperature drops and hazardous conditions across large parts of Türkiye.
Strong winds already affected daily life in Istanbul on Thursday as gusts reached up to 90 kilometers per hour in some areas, prompting warnings about falling objects, roof damage, and carbon monoxide poisoning linked to stove and natural gas use.
Ferry services across the Bosphorus and the Sea of Marmara were partially suspended as rough seas developed, particularly along the Besiktas coastline.
As the wind system weakens, authorities say colder air will quickly take its place, setting the stage for snow.
This rapid transition from mild, storm-driven weather to winter conditions reflects a broader national pattern that meteorologists say will affect most regions over the coming days.
The General Directorate of Meteorology placed 63 provinces under a yellow-coded warning, signaling potentially dangerous conditions that require close monitoring.
The alert covers large parts of Marmara, the Aegean, the Mediterranean, Central Anatolia, the Black Sea, and Eastern Anatolia.
Risks include strong storms, heavy rain, snowfall in inland and elevated areas, ice formation, and avalanches in regions with deep snow cover.
Authorities highlighted a heightened avalanche risk in the elevated interior of the Eastern Black Sea region and eastern parts of Eastern Anatolia, where steep slopes hold significant snow accumulation.
Across the country, coastal areas are expected to see rain and occasional thunderstorms, while inland and higher elevations prepare for sleet and snow.
Ankara is forecast to shift from rain to snow in higher districts overnight, while Izmir and much of the Aegean face heavy rain and strong winds. Eastern provinces are bracing for renewed snowfall, ice, and subzero temperatures.
Meteorological officials warn that temperatures will continue to fluctuate sharply in the days ahead, with brief warming followed by sudden cooling.
Citizens are urged to follow official updates, limit travel during severe conditions, and take precautions against ice, wind damage, and power disruptions.
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