Weather warning for Türkiye: 8 provinces on alert for heavy rain, strong winds, snow

The Meteorology General Directorate (MGM) has issued yellow-coded warnings for eight provinces in Türkiye, forecasting severe weather conditions across large parts of the country.

Heavy rain, strong winds, and snowfall are expected to affect daily life and travel in many regions.

Eight provinces in Türkiye under yellow-coded weather warning

The MGM has issued yellow-coded weather warnings for areas predicted to experience intense rainfall, snowfall, and strong winds. These provinces include:

• Istanbul
• Kirklareli
• Kocaeli
• Sakarya
• Yalova
• Bursa
• Bingol
• Sanliurfa

Citizens are urged to prepare for potential disruptions, including flooding, icy roads, and transportation issues caused by the severe weather.

Weather warning: Rain, snow, strong winds to affect Türkiye’s regions

Heavy rainfall:

• Expected in Marmara, Mediterranean and Black Sea coastal areas.
• Istanbul will see intermittent heavy rain with temperatures of 7 to 9 degrees Celsius (45–48 degrees Fahrenheit).
• Southeastern regions, including Sanliurfa, face risks of flooding and landslides.

Snowfall and icy roads:

• Northern Central Anatolia, eastern Türkiye, and parts of the Black Sea region will experience snowfall.
• Significant snow accumulation is forecast in Kirklareli’s highlands and Bingol.
• Icy roads and poor visibility will create travel hazards, especially in eastern provinces.
• Avalanche risks remain high in Erzurum, Kars, and steep slopes across eastern Türkiye.

Strong winds:

• Wind speeds of 50–80 kilometers per hour (31–50 miles per hour) are expected in Marmara, Northern Aegean, and Eastern Anatolia.
• Coastal areas like Gokceada and Bozcaada could see gusts up to 90 km/h (56 mph).
• Risks include roof damage, falling objects, transportation delays, and power outages.

Detailed weather warnings for regions in Türkiye

Marmara region:

• Heavy rain will affect Istanbul, Kocaeli, Sakarya, Yalova, and Bursa.
• Kirklareli’s highlands will see snowfall, creating hazardous travel conditions.
• Strong northern winds will persist through Friday evening, reaching speeds of 50–80 km/h (31–50 mph).

Aegean region:

• Rain and storms are expected in northern areas, including Canakkale and Balikesir.
• Coastal regions will experience gusty winds, with occasional strong gusts disrupting daily activities.

Central Anatolia:

• Snow and icy conditions are forecast for higher altitudes in Ankara, Eskisehir, and Cankiri.
• Cold rain will dominate other areas, with limited visibility due to fog and frost in the mornings.

Eastern Türkiye:

• Bingol and Sanliurfa are expected to see heavy snowfall and rainfall.
• Avalanche risks remain high on steep slopes, particularly in Erzurum and Kars.
• Poor road conditions and freezing temperatures will pose challenges for residents and travelers.

Southeastern Türkiye:

• Rain and thunderstorms are forecast for Sanliurfa, Diyarbakir, and Gaziantep.
• Strong winds from the southeast will intensify conditions in these regions, potentially causing localized disruptions.

Safety precautions for residents and travelers during severe weather

• Stay informed: Follow MGM weather bulletins and updates from local authorities regarding weather warnings.
• Secure outdoor items: Protect belongings from being displaced by strong winds.
• Limit travel: Avoid unnecessary trips in regions with heavy snowfall or intense rain.
• Prepare emergency kits: Stock up on essentials like flashlights, batteries, and first aid supplies.
• Drive carefully: Maintain low speeds and a safe distance on slippery roads.

Weather forecast for Türkiye over the coming days

The severe weather is expected to subside in most regions by the weekend, although temperatures will remain low in northern and eastern areas. Snowfall and freezing conditions are likely to persist in higher altitudes.

Residents are encouraged to plan their activities with caution and follow weather warnings and safety measures during this period of unsettled weather.