Snow Armageddon in Turkey: Forecast and Analysis
A snowstorm has hit central Turkey, causing emergencies in dozens of provinces. Local authorities say the storm continues to paralyze roads, schools are closed, and rescue operations are ongoing around the clock.
Current situation
- Rescue operations:
In Malatya province, snowdrifts blocked roads, trapping 787 people. In the Hakimhan district, five shepherds were trapped on a mountain road, three of them were evacuated, but one of the victims died in hospital. Rescue services continue to battle snowdrifts that are up to 1 meter deep in some places. - Unexpected events:
In the Bunyan district of Kayseri, a pregnant woman was forced to give birth in a patrol car because an ambulance could not get through the snowdrifts. The mother and child are under medical supervision. - School closures:
Due to unfavorable conditions, educational institutions in 20 provinces have completely closed. In some areas, including Sivas and Tokat, classes have been partially suspended.
Weather forecast for Turkey
- Air temperature:
A sharp drop in temperature is expected in the coming days:- Nighttime lows: -6...-10°C.
- Daytime highs: not higher than -2...-4°C.
Icy winds will increase the feeling of cold, especially in mountainous areas.
- Snowfalls:
Precipitation will continue in several provinces of Central Anatolia and Eastern Turkey. The heaviest snowfalls are expected in:- Kayseri
- Malatya
- Sivas
Predicted depth of new precipitation: 20–30 cm.
- Wind:
Gusts up to 40–50 km/h, which can cause blizzards and reduced visibility on the roads.
Advice for residents
- Avoid travel:
If you are in the affected areas, refrain from traveling unless absolutely necessary. Roads are slippery and visibility is extremely low due to snowstorms. - Warm clothing and food:
Dress appropriately for the weather and keep food supplies at home. Power outages are possible. - Plan rescue operations:
If you find yourself in an emergency, immediately contact emergency services and indicate your exact location.
The snow "Armageddon" continues to disrupt daily life in Turkey. Snowstorms and frosts will continue in the coming days, so it is important for residents of the affected areas to take safety measures and follow updates from meteorologists. Rescue services are doing everything possible to help people and clear roads, but the scale of the storm requires caution and patience.
