12 Jan 2024 | 12:10 PM UTC
Turkiye: Adverse winter weather forecast across northeastern regions through at least Jan. 13
Heavy snowfall forecast across parts of northeastern Turkiye through at least Jan. 13. Hazardous travel conditions likely.
Adverse winter weather is forecast across parts of northeastern Turkiye through at least Jan. 14. Heavy snowfall and sleet are expected across elevated parts of the eastern Black Sea Region late Jan. 12 before more widespread snowfall is likely to fall across the region Jan. 13. Strong winds may combine with heavy snowfall to generate hazardous travel conditions due to reduced visibility caused by blowing snow. Icy and frosty conditions are also expected across the region.
The Turkish State Meteorological Service has issued the following weather warnings Jan. 12-13:
Orange heavy snowfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Artvin and Rize provinces.
Yellow heavy snowfall warnings: Giresun and Trabzon provinces.
Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
In addition to the wintry precipitation, strong wind gusts could lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow. Sporadic power outages are likely throughout the affected area.
The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions in the region over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roadways in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highways if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Flight delays and cancellations are likely due to ground stops and deicing operations at airports in the region.
Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where heavy snowfall is forecast. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. Plan accordingly for delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.