01 Mar 2022 | 06:03 AM UTC
Turkey: Adverse weather forecast across southwestern regions through at least March 3
Severe weather forecast across parts of southwestern Turkey through at least March 3. Disruptions likely.
Event
Heavy snowfall is forecast across parts of southwestern Turkey through at least March 3. Heavy precipitation is forecast through March 3 with heavy snow likely at elevations above 900 meters (2,952 feet). Authorities warn that floods and flash floods, lightning in coastal areas, icing and strong winds at higher elevations, a decrease in visibility during precipitation, and transport disruptions are possible.
As of March 1, the Turkish State Meteorological Service has issued the following weather warnings across the affected region:
Orange heavy rain warnings (second-highest level on a four-tier scale): Adana, Antalya, Hatay, Kahramanmaras, and Osmaniye provinces.
Yellow heavy rain warnings: Mersin Province.
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.
Hazardous Conditions
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 stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
The adverse weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions 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 provinces as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highway if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area.
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.
Flight delays and cancellations are likely due to ground stops and deicing operations at airports across the affected region. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations along the Mediterranean coast if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, impacting freight and passenger maritime traffic.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where heavy snowfall is forecast. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides, as well as mountainous regions where avalanches pose a threat. 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 affected areas. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
