12.01.2026 12:20
Snowfall has started to affect the northern and western parts of Istanbul, as well as the high regions. The General Directorate of Meteorology issued a yellow-coded warning for 41 provinces, while Prof. Dr. Orhan Şen stated that the impact of snow will increase throughout Istanbul, warning, "We have entered a critical 24 hours; if you have no business outside, do not go out."
The General Directorate of Meteorology (MGM) reported in its latest forecasts that snowfall will be effective in most parts of the country today. A yellow-coded warning has been issued for 41 provinces, including Istanbul. It has been observed that precipitation continues intermittently in the city, with some areas increasing in intensity.
ORHAN ŞEN: SNOW WILL BE PRESENT IN ALL OF ISTANBUL BY EVENING
Meteorology expert Prof. Dr. Orhan Şen used the following statements in his live evaluation:
"Snow has started in Istanbul right now. There is whitening in the high areas. In the coming hours, precipitation will turn to snow on the European side as well. We expect snowfall in almost all regions of Istanbul by evening. The temperature will not exceed 2-3 degrees."
SNOW DEPTH IN INLAND AREAS MAY REACH 5-10 CENTIMETERS
Şen stated that the snow depth in high areas could reach 5-10 centimeters, while in coastal regions, a snow cover of 1-2 centimeters could form. He emphasized that the precipitation would continue until the night hours, even until tomorrow morning.
RISK OF ICING WILL INCREASE IN THE EVENING HOURS
Pointing out that the temperature will drop further from the evening hours, Şen noted that there is a risk of icing, especially on bridges and viaducts. He stated that the measures taken by the governorship have reduced traffic density, which provides a significant advantage.
"IF YOU DON'T HAVE BUSINESS, DON'T GO OUT"
Emphasizing that Istanbul has entered a critical 24 hours, Prof. Dr. Orhan Şen said, "Wherever you are in Istanbul, if you don't have business, don't go out. The vehicle density has decreased. The snowfall will leave the city tomorrow afternoon, but one should remain alert during this time."