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Heavy snow returns to Istanbul —here’s the map of all districts with weather conditions

A dog sits in front of the mosque as snow covers Sultanahmet square in Istanbul A dog stands at Sultanahmet Square following a snowfall in Istanbul, Türkiye, Jan. 23, 2022. (AA Photo)
By Newsroom
Feb 16, 2025 7:49 PM

The Turkish Meteorological Service forecasted that snow will return to Istanbul by Wednesday and continue until Friday, with temperatures dropping significantly. According to the latest reports, temperatures are expected to fall to 0°C (32°F).

Rainfall, which continues in the city, is expected to persist locally and intensify from Sunday night until Monday evening. On Tuesday, the rain is likely to transition into sleet, with snowfall anticipated in higher elevations.

By Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025, sleet is expected, followed by intermittent snowfall on Thursday and Friday, Feb. 20-21, 2025.

Istanbul first snowfall
The Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque) on a winter day with snow in Istanbul, Türkiye. (Adobe Stock Photo)

Meteorology Professor Dr. Orhan Sen stated that Istanbul might experience snowfall of up to 10 centimeters, especially in northern districts. He warned that the snow could disrupt transportation and daily life, advising residents to prepare in advance.

According to Sen, rain will intensify on Monday, with snowfall expected from Wednesday to Sunday, particularly affecting traffic conditions from Thursday onward.

Here is a map of all districts of Istanbul with the expected weather conditions:

Authorities caution as snow returns to Istanbul

The Istanbul Governor’s Office issued a statement warning of an upcoming cold front starting early in the week. The statement advised citizens to remain cautious and take necessary precautions, emphasizing the potential risks associated with slippery roads, reduced visibility, and overall disruptions to daily activities.

The statement also highlighted the importance of taking necessary measures, such as using winter tires, staying informed through official channels, and planning travel accordingly to avoid hazardous conditions.

An aerial view of a district affected by snowfall in Istanbul
An aerial view of a highway in the Beykoz district after snowfall in Istanbul, Türkiye on Feb. 11, 2025. (AA Photo)

The Disaster Coordination Center (AKOM) has also released a new report regarding the cold weather and snowfall. The report predicts an increase in rainfall starting Monday morning, with conditions intensifying by midday.

According to AKOM, a new cold front is expected to sweep across the country, causing temperatures to drop by 3 to 6°C. The center’s forecast indicates sleet on Wednesday, light snowfall on Thursday, and more persistent snowfall on Friday and Saturday.

Although there have been no official announcements regarding flight cancellations, weather conditions are likely to affect airport operations and disrupt daily life across the city.

Last Updated:  Feb 17, 2025 1:37 AM