Istanbul faces heavy snowfall as winter storm intensifies
An aerial view of Beykoz and its surroundings covered in white after the snowfall that started in the evening hours on the Anatolian side and continued intermittently in some regions, mainly in the higher parts of Istanbul, Türkiye, February 21, 2025. (AA Photo)
Snowfall has returned to Istanbul, causing widespread disruptions across the city. The snowfall, which has intensified over the past two days, is expected to continue through Sunday afternoon, with blizzards and icy conditions persisting until Monday morning. The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality’s Disaster Coordination Center (AKOM) reported that the snow would become heavier on Saturday, affecting transportation and daily life.
According to meteorologists, snowfall across Istanbul will be particularly strong on Saturday, with accumulations reaching 10-20 centimeters in most areas and exceeding 20 centimeters in higher elevations. Authorities have advised residents to remain vigilant against icy roads, reduced visibility, and potential travel disruptions.
Winter storm affects surrounding provinces
Beyond Istanbul, the storm is also impacting neighboring regions, including Kocaeli, Sakarya, Duzce, Bolu, Yalova, northern Balikesir, and western Bursa. These areas are expected to experience intermittent heavy snow through Saturday night, particularly in higher elevations where accumulations will surpass 20 cm.
Authorities have warned of possible transportation delays and hazardous road conditions.
Travel restrictions and flight cancellations
In response to the severe weather, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure has implemented strict measures to ensure public safety. Transport Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu, speaking from the General Directorate of Highways’ Intelligent Transportation Systems Center in Ankara, emphasized the importance of winter tires and urged residents to postpone non-essential travel on Friday and Saturday.
Additionally, major airports in Istanbul are working around the clock to keep runways operational. Despite these efforts, officials have announced a 40% reduction in flight schedules for Friday and Saturday to prevent disruptions caused by the storm.
Road restrictions for heavy vehicles
To maintain traffic flow and prevent congestion on critical routes, a ban on heavy vehicles, including trucks, trailers, and tankers, has been enforced from 1 p.m. on Friday until 1 p.m. on Sunday.
This restriction applies to major highways such as D100, D750, TEM, and the Northern Marmara Motorway, covering Istanbul, Kocaeli, Sakarya, Duzce, Bolu, and Ankara.
Nationwide weather conditions: Snow, ice, and avalanche Risks
The winter storm is affecting a large portion of Türkiye, with heavy snowfall expected in the eastern Marmara region, Central Anatolia, the Black Sea, and eastern Anatolia.
Coastal areas of the Black Sea, along with Kocaeli, Sakarya, Duzce, Bolu and Istanbul, will experience intense snowfall, leading to icy roads and limited visibility.
Meteorologists have also warned of potential avalanches in high-altitude areas of the Eastern Black Sea region and steep slopes in eastern Anatolia. Strong winds, reaching speeds of 40-60 kilometers per hour, are expected in Central Anatolia and parts of the Mediterranean region.
