19.02.2025 09:01
After consecutive warnings from the Meteorology, AKOM, and the Governorship, the heaviest snowfall in the last 5 years is expected to hit Istanbul. It is stated that the snow depth in the Megacity, which is expected to return to Siberia today, could reach 40 centimeters, and citizens are being warned, "Do not travel by car, use public transportation." The system named "Altay Snowstorm" will have an impact in many regions of Turkey.
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The General Directorate of Meteorology provided important information regarding the expected weather conditions across the country on February 19. While Istanbul was affected by snowfall last week, a new snow warning has been issued. According to the evaluations of the General Directorate of Meteorology, mixed rain and snow will be observed in Istanbul during the morning and afternoon hours today.
SNOW DEPTH IN ISTANBUL WILL REACH 40 CENTIMETERS
According to AKOM's statements, the heaviest snow in the last 5 years is coming to Istanbul, and it is expected to last for 6 days. It is stated that these precipitation will intensify especially on Sunday, and the snow depth in the Megacity, which is expected to turn into Siberia, will reach 40 centimeters. Experts are warning citizens, "Do not drive, use public transport."
ALTAY IS AT THE DOOR
With the effect of the system called the Altay Snowstorm, temperatures will rapidly drop in many regions of Turkey, and snowfall is expected not only in Istanbul but also in the inner regions of Marmara, Central Anatolia, and the Black Sea provinces.
SEA WATER TEMPERATURE AROUND 9 DEGREES
Meteorology Engineer Adil Tek explained this situation with the following words: "In previous years, we observed that when the sea water temperatures in Istanbul were around 8 degrees, the snow held on the ground. Currently, sea water temperatures are fluctuating between 8-9 degrees. This also increases the effect of snowfall." Tek pointed out that there is a high probability of a large area, especially Istanbul, being covered in snow.
FLIGHT CANCELLATIONS AND MEASURES ANNOUNCED
On the other hand, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure announced the measures taken at Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gökçen Airport due to the expected snowfall and icing between February 19-21, 2025. According to the ministry's statement, a decision was made to reduce capacity and cancel flights after evaluating the effects of weather conditions on air traffic during the Meteorological Emergency Committee meeting.
FLIGHT CAPACITY WILL BE REDUCED AT ISTANBUL AIRPORT
At Istanbul Airport, the flight capacity will be reduced by 15% for Wednesday, February 19, while this rate will be set at 20% for Friday, February 21. At the airport, where an average of 1,000 flights are operated daily, approximately 150 flights are expected to be canceled on February 19 and about 200 flights on February 21.
STAGED FLIGHT CANCELLATIONS AT SABİHA GÖKÇEN
At Sabiha Gökçen Airport, no flight cancellations are expected for February 19, while 10% of flights will be canceled on Thursday, February 20. In this context, Pegasus Airlines will cancel 46 flights, and Ajet Airlines will cancel 22 flights.
AIRLINE COMPANIES AND TEAMS ARE ON ALERT
As a precaution for Friday, February 21, a decision was made to cancel 15% of flights. Accordingly, Pegasus will cancel 68 flights, and Ajet will cancel 34 flights. In the ministry's statement, it was noted that the flight crews' schedules at both airports were reviewed and arrangements were made for crews with critical shifts. Additionally, it was reported that the number of standby crews has been increased and that airlines have taken additional measures to avoid disruptions in their operations. Passengers are advised to follow the official announcements of the airlines for flight cancellations and updated flight information.
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