Turkiye: Adverse weather forecast across southeastern regions through at least March 22

Severe weather is forecast across much of southeastern Turkiye through at least March 22. Heavy rainfall is expected across much of the region March 21-22, with snowfall and sleet possible over higher ground. Rainfall totals of up to 7.5 cm (3 inches) are possible in Hakkari, eastern Sirnak, and southern Van provinces. Thunderstorms are also possible in parts of the eastern Mediterranean Region March 21. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes. Strong winds may combine with heavy snowfall to generate hazardous travel conditions in mountainous areas due to reduced visibility caused by blowing snow. Icy and frosty conditions are also expected in elevated areas, as well as possible avalanches.

The Turkish State Meteorological Service has issued the following weather warnings March 21:

• Orange heavy rainfall, snowfall, and avalanche warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Hakkari, Sirnak, and Van provinces.

• Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Adiyaman, Batman, Bingol, Bitlis, Diyarbakir, Elazig, Mardin, Mus, Sanliurfa, Siirt, and Tunceli provinces.

• Yellow heavy snowfall warnings: Adiyaman, Batman, Bingol, Bitlis, Diyarbakir, Elazig, Mus, Siirt, and Tunceli provinces.

• Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Adana, Kahramanmaras, and Osmaniye provinces.

Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.

Precipitation could fall as snow in the higher elevations over the coming days. Wind gusts could cause blowing and drifting snow; decreased visibility is likely in mountainous areas. Rain-induced landslides cannot be discounted in areas of elevated terrain; there is also the possibility of avalanches in mountainous areas where the snowpack has become unstable due to heavy snowfall. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant winds, flooding, or landslides impact utility networks.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Heavy snow will likely make driving hazardous in some areas; authorities could implement temporary road closures or detours in such locations. Mountain passes and tunnels could be closed as a precautionary measure during periods of intense snowfall.

Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.