Official snowfall warning in Istanbul: Which districts will be affected
Heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures will hit Istanbul this week with risks of icy roads, Istanbul, Türkiye, Jan. 26, 2024. (AA Photo)
The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Disaster Coordination Center (AKOM) warns that a Siberian cold wave is approaching the city.
Temperatures will drop on Tuesday evening, and snowfall is expected on Wednesday and Thursday. Officials urge residents to prepare for icy roads and possible disruptions.
Istanbul will see sharp drop in temperatures with snowfall expected midweek
AKOM reports that a Siberian cold front will hit Istanbul and much of Türkiye.
- On Monday, temperatures were around 7 degrees Celsius (44.6 degrees Fahrenheit) in the morning and reached 12 degrees Celsius (53.6 degrees Fahrenheit) by the afternoon.
- A sharp drop is expected in the evening, lowering temperatures to 8 degrees Celsius (46.4 degrees Fahrenheit).
- By Tuesday night, temperatures will fall another 6–8 degrees Celsius, intensifying winter conditions.
By midweek, temperatures will drop below seasonal norms, ranging between 1 degree Celsius and 3 degrees Celsius (33.8 degrees Fahrenheit – 37.4 degrees Fahrenheit). Snowfall is expected across multiple districts, with heavier accumulation in higher areas.
Which districts in Istanbul will experience the most snowfall, icy conditions?
According to the Meteorology 1st Regional Directorate, snowfall will hit:
- Arnavutkoy
- Atasehir
- Basaksehir
- Beykoz
- Beylikduzu
- Catalca
- Cekmekoy
- Eyup
- Esenyurt
- Gaziosmanpasa
- Kagithane
- Sancaktepe
- Sariyer
- Sile
- Silivri
- Sisli
- Sultangazi
- Umraniye
The remaining districts will see a mix of rain and snow.
Weather experts predict snow accumulation will range from 2 to 5 centimeters on Wednesday and increase to 3-10 centimeters on Thursday. The northern and higher-altitude districts will see the most snowfall.
Officials warn of icy roads, traffic delays, and travel risks in Istanbul
AKOM urges residents to take precautions, particularly in areas prone to ice. “The public should be ready for snowfall and slippery roads,” officials said. Drivers must be extra cautious as icy conditions will make travel hazardous.
Strong winds will accompany the cold wave. Southwesterly winds will blow moderately during the day before shifting to a strong northeasterly (poyraz) wind by Tuesday evening. Wind speeds in the Marmara region could reach 40-70 kilometers/hour (25-43 mph), affecting transportation and daily life.
Officials also reported on Istanbul’s water reserves. The city’s reservoirs currently stand at 52.8% capacity, while the sea temperature is 11 degrees Celsius (51.8 degrees Fahrenheit). While there are no immediate concerns about water supply, authorities urge residents to remain cautious about possible disruptions caused by extreme weather.
How will Siberian cold wave affect other parts of Türkiye?
The Turkish State Meteorological Service warns that the cold wave will stretch beyond Istanbul, bringing heavy rain to western and northern regions and snowfall to the interior and eastern parts of the country.
Weather officials have issued warnings for strong winds in the Marmara and Northern Aegean regions, with gusts potentially reaching 70 km/h (43 mph). These winds could disrupt transportation and cause travel hazards.
Additionally, avalanche risks have been reported in the high-altitude regions of the Eastern Black Sea and Eastern Anatolia.
Residents urged to take necessary precautions before snowfall begins
Authorities stress the importance of preparation as snowfall approaches.
“People should brace for cold and slippery conditions,” officials said. They recommend wearing warm clothing and avoiding unnecessary outdoor activities when conditions worsen.
With snowfall expected midweek, Istanbul residents should stay informed through weather alerts and follow official guidance to ensure safety and avoid disruptions.
