Turkiye: Adverse weather forecast across northeastern regions through at least Dec. 19

Severe weather is forecast across parts of northeastern Turkiye through at least Dec. 19. Heavy rainfall is expected over coastal areas of Artvin and Rize provinces and heavy snowfall in interior areas of Ardahan, Artvin, and Rize provinces. Strong winds are also likely across the affected area. Snowfall accumulations of more than 20 cm (8 inches) are possible in elevated parts of the region. Winds gusting up to 70 kph (43 mph) are possible in the mountains and up to 60 (37 mph) across the rest of the region. Heavy rainfall may trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes. Hazardous travel conditions are likely in areas where more wintry precipitation occurs due to slippery roads and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow.

The Turkish State Meteorological Service has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area Dec. 18:

• Orange heavy snowfall warnings (the lowest level on a three-tier scale): Artvin Province.

• Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Artvin and Rize provinces.

• Yellow heavy snowfall warnings: Ardahan and Rize provinces.

• Yellow strong wind warnings: Ardahan, Artvin, and Rize provinces.

Authorities may issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming hours and days.

Where precipitation falls as rain, flash and areal flooding is possible. Such flooding is possible in low-lying communities near watercourses and other large bodies of water, as well as in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.

Precipitation could fall as snow in the parts of the region 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. Power outages could occur throughout the affected area.

Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. 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.

The disruptive weather will likely cause some delays and cancellations at airports in the region. Flooding or snow could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall or snowfall and potential track blockages.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or avalanches, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.