Türkiye weather warning: Heavy rain, strong winds, snow

The Meteorology General Directorate (MGM) and Istanbul Disaster Coordination Center (AKOM) issued yellow and orange warnings for 10 provinces, including Istanbul.

These weather warnings forecast severe weather conditions such as heavy rainfall, strong winds, and snowfall in certain areas.

Here is a detailed breakdown of what to expect and how to stay prepared.

Severe weather warnings issued for 10 provinces in Türkiye

• Yellow warnings indicate potential danger and apply to:
  • Aydin
  • Balikesir
  • Canakkale
  • Edirne
  • Istanbul
  • Izmir
  • Kirklareli
  • Manisa
  • Tekirdag
• Orange warning signals higher risk and applies only to Mugla. Residents should expect very heavy rainfall, flooding, and landslides in this province.

Marmara, Aegean, Mediterranean regions will face heavy rain, winds

• Rain and thunderstorms: Marmara, Aegean, and western Mediterranean regions are forecast to experience heavy rain, with thunderstorms affecting coastal areas.
• Strong winds: Winds of up to 43 mph (70 km/h) are expected in southern Marmara, northern Aegean, and parts of western Anatolia. Lodos winds could disrupt maritime transportation and cause damage to structures.
• Temperature fluctuations: Istanbul’s temperatures will range from 57 degrees Fahrenheit to 63 degrees Fahrenheit (14 degrees Celsius to 17 degrees Celsius), staying above seasonal norms despite the rainy weather.

Türkiye weather warning: Snowfall, icy conditions expected in central, eastern regions

• Snow and sleet: Inner Anatolia and higher altitudes in eastern regions will experience snow and mixed precipitation.
• Freezing temperatures: Provinces like Erzurum, Kars, and Bitlis will see lows of 19 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 7 degrees Celsius), with icy roads creating challenges for travelers.
• Visibility issues: Fog and frost will further reduce visibility, particularly during morning and evening hours.

Detailed regional weather updates for Monday, December 9

• Marmara Region:
  • Rain and thunderstorms are expected throughout, with strong winds in southern areas.
  • Istanbul will experience intermittent rain and thunderstorms until Wednesday evening.
• Aegean Region:
  • Coastal areas like Izmir and Mugla will see intense rainfall.
  • Rainfall in Mugla could reach up to 3.9 inches (100 mm), posing risks of flooding and landslides.
• Central Anatolia:
  • Snow and icy conditions will dominate in higher altitudes, while cities like Ankara will experience cold rain.
• Eastern Türkiye:
  • Snowfall will affect provinces like Erzurum and Kars, with freezing temperatures and icy roads creating travel hazards.
• Southeastern Türkiye:
  • Provinces such as Diyarbakir and Gaziantep will remain dry, with mild weather conditions.

Recommendations for travelers and residents in Türkiye during severe weather

1. Follow updates: Monitor MGM announcements and local news for weather warnings.
2. Secure belongings: Tie down or move loose objects that could be displaced by strong winds.
3. Limit travel: Avoid unnecessary trips in areas with heavy rainfall, snow, or icy roads.
4. Prepare for emergencies: Have an emergency kit ready with flashlights, batteries, and first aid supplies.
5. Drive cautiously: Reduce speed and maintain distance on wet or icy roads.

Türkiye’s weather outlook for the week ahead

Rain and strong winds will dominate Türkiye‘s western and northern regions at the start of the week.

Snowfall and freezing conditions are expected in the east and parts of central Türkiye. Temperatures will remain above seasonal norms in most regions but could drop temporarily in areas affected by rain or snow.

By preparing for the weather warnings, residents and visitors can minimize disruptions and stay safe during this period of unsettled weather. Stay informed, take precautions, and plan your activities according to the weather warnings.