Istanbul paralyzed by heavy snowfall as traffic and public transport grind to halt
People walk with umbrellas on Istiklal Street during the snowfall in Taksim, Beyoglu district, Istanbul, Türkiye, Feb. 19, 2025. (AA Photo)
Heavy snowfall began early Wednesday across Istanbul, as anticipated by both the Meteorology Department and the Istanbul’s Governor’s Office, triggering accidents and causing traffic congestion to soar to 90% by evening. The heavy snow also led to widespread transportation disruptions, with large crowds at public transport stops and delays on metro and metrobus services operated by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality.
The snow, which started in the morning, worsened by the evening, leaving residents struggling with long queues and delays. Citizens using the M2 Yenikapi-Haciosman metro line, one of the busiest metro network in Istanbul, contributed to the growing congestion, while others expressed frustration over the service disruptions.
Meanwhile, traffic congestion, as reported by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality’s Traffic Map, hit a staggering 90% across the city.
In addition, some ferry services in the city have been suspended due to the storm’s impact.
In response, Istanbul Metropolitan Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu reassured residents, stating: “As of now, there are no roads blocked within our responsibility or those of other agencies. There are no transportation routes obstructed by the snow. All roads are open.”
Weather Forecast for Feb. 19-23
The cold front moving westward from the Black Sea region has brought the city under the path of an intense snowstorm, expected to cause significant disruptions to travel and daily life for at least the next four days.
Temperatures in Istanbul are forecast to range from 0 to 2 degrees Celsius until February 22, with lows expected to reach between minus 1 to minus 2 degrees Celsius, according to meteorologists. As the storm strengthens, local authorities have issued warnings about travel disruptions.
Meteorologists have issued warnings for continued adverse weather, forecasting snow accumulation that could affect traffic, flights, and daily routines:
- Feb. 19: Snowfall will start in the afternoon on the European side of Istanbul, with Trakya also seeing snow. Ankara will experience light snow.
- Feb. 20: Snow intensity will increase in the Marmara and Western Black Sea regions, with snow accumulation of 2-4 cm.
- Feb. 21: Snowfall will intensify, particularly in Istanbul and surrounding areas, with snow accumulation reaching 10 cm and more in higher elevations.
- Feb. 22-23: Snow will persist, but precipitation is expected to decrease by Sunday, with cold and snowy weather gradually moving out of Istanbul and Türkiye.
Schools and some universities suspend education
Meanwhile, in response to the severe weather, several universities in Istanbul suspended classes. Following the Istanbul Governor’s decision to suspend education for all primary, secondary, and high schools on Thursday, February 20, universities also made announcements regarding closures.
Bogazici University Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Naci İnci stated that all educational activities would be conducted online on February 20 and 21 due to the weather.
Istanbul University followed suit, noting that educational activities would be suspended on February 20 due to heavy snowfall and icy conditions.
Istanbul Technical University and Yildiz Technical University also suspended on-campus classes, opting for online instruction.
Meanwhile, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa announced a one-day suspension and provided administrative leave to specific staff members, including those with young children or disabilities.
Sabiha, Istanbul Airports cancel flights
With snow continuing to disrupt daily life, Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gokcen International Airport reported numerous flight cancellations for Wednesday and Thursday, citing adverse weather conditions.
Istanbul Airport, Türkiye’s busiest airport, has announced a reduction in flight capacity due to the worsening weather. The Transport and Infrastructure Ministry confirmed that flights at the airport will be reduced by 15% on February 19 and by 20% on February 21. Turkish Airlines has canceled approximately 200 flights on February 21, depending on real-time weather conditions.
Sabiha Gokcen International Airport Airport Authority HEAS made a statement following today’s meeting of the Meteorological Emergency Committee (MADKOM).
“Due to the expected adverse meteorological conditions at Sabiha Gökcen Airport, 15 % of the remaining flights will be canceled in addition to the 10 % flight cancellation for February 20, 15 % of the remaining flights in addition to the 15 % flight cancellation for February 21 and 30 % of the flights on February 22.”
