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Early snowfall and drought concerns in Türkiye: Warning issued

Municipal worker is clearing snow from the streets following heavy snowfall. Erzurum, Türkiye, October 13, 2025. (AA Photo)
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Municipal worker is clearing snow from the streets following heavy snowfall. Erzurum, Türkiye, October 13, 2025. (AA Photo)
October 15, 2025 03:05 AM GMT+03:00

With the arrival of October, Türkiye is experiencing unusual weather events. Early snowfall has been reported in higher-altitude areas of Bolu, Kayseri, Sivas and Erzurum. Meteorology expert Adil Tek explained that this early snowfall is caused by an “occlusion front,” where cold air pushes warm air upward, leading to sudden drops in temperature and precipitation.

Tek also highlighted disruptions in the polar vortex, warning that polar-origin cold waves are likely to affect the country more frequently in the coming months. Changes in jet streams have prevented warm air from Africa from reaching Türkiye, effectively trapping cold air over the country.

Overnight snow surprises Erzurum, locals face difficulties walking. Erzurum, Türkiye, October 13, 2025. (AA Photo)
Overnight snow surprises Erzurum, locals face difficulties walking. Erzurum, Türkiye, October 13, 2025. (AA Photo)

Drought and water shortages in Bursa

After a particularly dry summer, water levels in Bursa’s reservoirs have fallen to alarming levels. Critical reservoirs such as Nilufer and Doganci have seen dramatic decreases in water levels. Bursa Metropolitan Municipality has urged residents to conserve water and avoid unnecessary usage.

Istanbul is expected to see variable weather in the coming days. On Wednesday, October 15, a northern front will bring brief, light rain mainly to the Anatolian side of the city. Similar intermittent showers are expected on Thursday, with light rain possible on Saturday morning. Rain is also expected to continue sporadically on Sunday. Temperatures will fluctuate between 19 and 22°C, with an average around 20°C.

Water levels in Bursa’s main reservoirs, Doganci and Nilufer, keep dropping. Bursa, Türkiye, October 13, 2025. (AA Photo)
Water levels in Bursa’s main reservoirs, Doganci and Nilufer, keep dropping. Bursa, Türkiye, October 13, 2025. (AA Photo)

Winter forecast

Meteorologist Adil Tek noted that Türkiye is returning to climate norms seen over the last 30 years. From late October through November and December, temperatures are expected to remain 0–1°C below seasonal averages. Cold days are likely to outnumber warmer days this year, signaling a potentially harsher winter than in recent years.

Experts continue to emphasize the importance of water conservation and energy savings. The current water shortage in Bursa serves as a warning for other major cities, urging citizens to stay prepared for changing weather conditions and to adopt responsible water usage practices.

October 15, 2025 03:05 AM GMT+03:00
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