Heavy snowfall in Istanbul leads to traffic chaos, car accidents

Istanbul is dealing with heavy snowfall, which is disrupting traffic and causing accidents across the city.

Snowfall intensified overnight, covering rooftops, streets, and vehicles. Roads are difficult to navigate, and congestion has worsened on major highways. Authorities are warning residents about ongoing snowfall and strong winds expected later today.

Snowstorm continues to impact traffic in Istanbul as drivers struggle on icy roads

Snowfall has affected Istanbul for two days. Some areas are experiencing blizzard conditions. High-altitude districts have seen the heaviest accumulation. Snow has moved toward inner neighborhoods, making roads slippery and congested.

• Traffic is moving slowly on the D-100 highway, TEM Otoyolu, and their connecting roads
• The European side has heavy congestion on routes leading to the Bosphorus/15 July Martyrs and Fatih Sultan Mehmet bridges
• The Avrasya Tunnel also has long queues
• On the Asian side, traffic is slow between Kadikoy and Kartal, as well as Atasehir and Sancaktepe
• The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality’s (IBB) traffic application reports a congestion rate of 69% across the city, with the Anatolian side at 78%

Accidents increase as vehicles lose control on snowy streets

Icy roads have led to multiple accidents. In Beykoz, a vehicle skidded off the road, plunged into a ditch, and was removed by a tow truck.

Another public transport bus in the same area slid on ice and crashed into a car. In Alibeykoy, long lines of buses formed as roads became impassable. Footage captured a motorcyclist slipping on the icy surface and falling.

Arnavutkoy and Eyupsultan have seen local residents assisting stranded drivers. Some cars slid down roads, hitting parked vehicles or curbs. At Sabiha Gokcen Airport, taxis and trucks lost control, leading to multiple minor accidents. Authorities urge drivers to use winter tires and drive cautiously.

Weather conditions bring more snowfall and strong winds to Istanbul

The Turkish State Meteorological Service reports that snowfall in Istanbul will continue intermittently throughout the day, especially in high-altitude areas.

The highest temperature will reach 7°C (44°F). Strong winds may make it feel even colder. In the afternoon, gusts will intensify, leading to a storm warning for the Marmara Sea.

Snowfall is also affecting multiple regions in Türkiye. The Marmara, Central Anatolia, and Eastern Anatolia regions are experiencing persistent winter conditions. Heavy snow is falling in cities such as Kastamonu, Samsun, and Kayseri.

Authorities warn of freezing temperatures, ice buildup on roads, and avalanche risks in high-altitude areas of Eastern Anatolia and the Eastern Black Sea region.

Municipal teams work to clear roads in Istanbul

Municipal teams are clearing roads, with salt trucks preventing ice buildup. Some pedestrian bridges and roads have been treated with salt to reduce slipperiness. Snowplows are working on major highways and bridges, but side streets remain difficult to navigate.

Public transportation hubs are crowded. Commuters face long waits at metrobus, bus, and tram transfer points. Despite ongoing efforts, authorities advise against unnecessary travel and warn residents to prepare for further delays as snowfall continues.