02.01.2026 13:14
Intense snowfall, which has increased its impact in Hakkari, caused moments of fear on the Şemdinli-Yüksekova highway. In an avalanche that occurred at the Şabatan Pass, a car was buried under snow, and 3 people trapped in the vehicle were rescued alive after approximately an hour of work by the teams.
Intense snowfall in the Şemdinli district of Hakkari has brought along the risk of avalanches. In an avalanche that occurred on the Şemdinli-Yüksekova highway, a car was buried under snow, and 3 people trapped in the vehicle were rescued by teams racing against time.
AVALANCHE OCCURRED AT ŞABATAN PASS
Due to the intermittent snowfall that has been ongoing in the region for about a week, the avalanche risk has risen to high levels, especially in higher areas. A car with 3 people inside, which was in motion at the Şabatan Pass, was suddenly caught under the falling avalanche.
TEAMS MOBILIZED
Upon notification, teams affiliated with the 117th Highways Branch of Yüksekova were dispatched to the area. Despite the freezing cold and challenging terrain conditions, the teams quickly initiated rescue operations with heavy machinery.
CRITICAL STRUGGLE LASTING 1 HOUR
The teams meticulously cleared the dense snow mass and reached the car after approximately 1 hour of work. The 3 people inside the vehicle were safely extracted, and it was learned that their health conditions were good.
THANKS FROM CITIZENS
Local residents who closely followed the rescue efforts thanked the highway teams for their selfless interventions.
"DO NOT TRAVEL UNLESS NECESSARY" WARNING
Highway authorities stated that snow removal operations on the Yüksekova-Şemdinli-Derecik line are ongoing 24/7 and issued important warnings to drivers. The statement said, "Due to heavy snowfall and high avalanche risk, it is necessary not to travel unless absolutely necessary, drivers should carry chains and towing ropes, and must comply with traffic signs."