Turkey: Heavy snowfall forecast January 3-5

Event

Heavy snow and rain is expected to fall across Turkey from Thursday, January 3, to Saturday, January 5, with the potential for transportation disruptions. Heavy rain is forecast for the southern and western coasts of the country, including Izmir, beginning on Friday, January 4, with snow falling in Istanbul and the central regions beginning on Thursday. Approximately 5-15 cm (2-6 in) of snow is forecast for Istanbul. The eastern portions of the country, including Van, Bitlis, and Hakkari, are already experiencing cold weather and snowstorms. Some communities in the east are inaccessible due to snow and further transportation disruptions, including flight and train cancelations or delays as well as road closures, are possible. 

Advice

Individuals in Turkey are advised to monitor local weather reports, maintain a flexible itinerary, and anticipate cold and adverse weather, transportation and power disruptions, including flight and train cancelations and delays, road closures, and adverse driving conditions.