Istanbul braces for 3 more days of snow as Siberian cold takes over Türkiye

Istanbul is set to experience three more days of snowfall and freezing temperatures as a Siberian cold front continues to affect the region.

The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality's Disaster Coordination Center (AKOM) has issued warnings, stating that snowfall mixed with rain will persist until Feb. 12.

• According to AKOM, temperatures across the city will remain between 5 and 8 degrees Celsius (41-46 degrees Fahrenheit) throughout the week
• Snowfall began affecting the higher elevations of Silivri and Catalca in the morning, and it is expected to intensify across the city after 5 p.m.
• The cold and wet conditions are expected to continue, maintaining winter-like weather patterns in the region

Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality completed preparations for the expected snowfall, while disaster teams tested emergency measures in a drill led by AKOM, Türkiye, Feb. 2, 2025. (AA Photo)

Heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures in Istanbul

Snowfall began again in Istanbul overnight, with accumulations reported in the city's higher elevations. Uskudar's Camlica Hill was among the areas covered in snow, while intermittent snowfall was observed throughout the city. Meteorologists indicate that precipitation will continue sporadically over the next three days.

The Turkish State Meteorological Service forecasts that Istanbul will see varying weather conditions, with rain in lower areas and snow in elevated districts. The storm system will also bring strong winds from the north, reaching speeds of 30 to 60 kilometers per hour (19-37 miles per hour), further intensifying the cold.

Snowfall covered the Bolu Mountain pass on the D-100 highway, affecting travel between Istanbul and Ankara, Türkiye, Feb. 6, 2025. (AA Photo)

Cold front affecting Türkiye continues to bring snowfall, strong winds

Weather conditions across Türkiye remain severe. The cold front has brought snowfall and mixed precipitation to several regions, including the eastern Marmara, Western Black Sea, Central Anatolia, and parts of Eastern Anatolia. Authorities have warned of icy roads, freezing temperatures, and potential disruptions to transportation.

In addition to snow and rain, strong winds are expected to hit western Türkiye, particularly along the Marmara and Aegean coasts, with gusts reaching up to 70 km/h (43 mph). The Meteorological Service has also issued warnings about fog, frost, and potential avalanche risks in the high-altitude areas of the Eastern Black Sea and Eastern Anatolia.

Heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures will hit Istanbul this week with risks of icy roads, Istanbul, Türkiye, Jan. 26, 2024. (AA Photo)

Istanbul weather forecast shows snowfall continuing until midweek

The snowfall in Istanbul is expected to last through Wednesday, Feb. 12, after which conditions will gradually improve.

• By Thursday, forecasts indicate partly cloudy skies and dry weather
• Temperatures, however, will remain below seasonal norms, ranging between 3 and 8 degrees Celsius

Authorities urge residents to take precautions against slippery roads and cold-related health risks. Emergency teams remain on standby to handle weather-related disruptions.

Despite the winter storm, flights and public transportation in Istanbul are currently operating without significant delays, though officials advise travelers to check for updates before heading to airports or train stations.

With three more days of snowfall ahead, Istanbul residents are bracing for continued wintry conditions before the weather clears later in the week.

Drivers faced snowy conditions on the Bolu Mountain pass along the D-100 highway, a key route connecting Istanbul and Ankara, Türkiye, Feb. 6, 2025. (AA Photo)

5-day weather forecast for Ankara, Aegean, other regions in Türkiye

• Ankara: Considerable cloudiness with occasional snow flurries with temperatures fluctuating between minus 6 degrees Celsius and 7 degrees Celsius. Light snow is expected, mainly in the afternoons.
• Kayseri: Persistent cold conditions with frequent snowfall. Temperatures remain below seasonal averages. Residents are advised to prepare for icy roads.
• Erzurum: Heavy snowfall expected, especially in higher elevations. Very low temperatures, dropping well below freezing. Avalanche warnings issued for mountainous areas.
• Western Black Sea Region: Mixed precipitation, with rain at lower elevations and snow in higher areas. Strong winds likely to exacerbate cold conditions. Drivers warned of potential ice accumulation on roads.
• Izmir: Mostly sunny and cool, with temperatures ranging between 1-10 degrees Celsius. Winds expected to be strong, particularly along the coast.
• Mugla: Mostly sunny, with cool temperatures between 0-14 degrees Celsius. Strong winds expected in some areas.
• Balıkesir: Mostly cloudy with occasional rain showers. Temperatures between minus 2 to 11 degrees Celsius, with a chance of light snow at higher elevations.

Authorities urge residents to take precautions against slippery roads and cold-related health risks. Emergency teams remain on standby to handle weather-related disruptions.

Despite the winter storm, flights and public transportation in Istanbul are currently operating without significant delays, though officials advise travelers to check for updates before heading to airports or train stations.

With three more days of snowfall ahead, Istanbul residents are bracing for continued wintry conditions before the weather clears later in the week.

February 10, 2025 12:18 PM GMT+03:00