14.01.2026 08:31
Although the expected heavy snowfall in Istanbul has not yet shown its effects, meteorology experts suggest that a significant change in weather conditions is on the way. Evaluations indicate that after January 18, colder air masses coming from the Black Sea will lead to a drop in temperatures, and snowfall may be stronger and more effective in February and March. Additionally, it is noted that this winter could be one of the harshest periods in the last 9 years.
As January approaches its midpoint, the expected snowfall in Istanbul has yet to arrive. While meteorology experts' warnings are closely monitored, the city's reservoirs remain at critical levels. Despite the suspension of education on Monday in Istanbul, snow was only briefly and sporadically effective in some districts.
THE MAIN SNOWFALL WILL BE IN FEBRUARY AND MARCH
Okan Bozyurt, a faculty member at Afyon Kocatepe University, stated in his assessment on TRT News screens that the main snowfall in Istanbul could be seen in February and March. Bozyurt expressed that, as in his previous statements, the likelihood of significant and prolonged snowfall in Istanbul during December and January is low.
"I DO NOT EXPECT SNOW ACCUMULATION IN LOW AREAS"
Bozyurt indicated that he expects snowfall in Istanbul but does not foresee it occurring intensively in December and January. He mentioned that snowfall during these periods could be more limited, emphasizing that the main heavy precipitation is seen in February and March. Bozyurt noted that snow transitions could occur in the higher elevations of Istanbul, but he does not expect "very alarming snow accumulation" in the low areas.
NEW WAVE COMING ON JANUARY 18
Bozyurt stated that snowfall in our country will continue until Wednesday, after which the system will quickly leave Turkey. He noted that after January 18, a colder air mass will come from the Black Sea, particularly highlighting the dates of January 19, 20, and 21.
Bozyurt said, "Especially on January 19, 20, and 21, nighttime temperatures in the inner regions will drop to -10 degrees and below, and therefore I expect strong icing in the northern, inner, and eastern regions of the country."
"THERE IS A STRONG SYSTEM ON JANUARY 25"
In his assessment regarding the period after January 25, Bozyurt expressed that there is a possibility of a strong system coming from the Balkans and the Black Sea, but stated that it is too early to speak definitively at this stage. He said, "I expect a strong system from the Balkans and the Black Sea after January 25, but right now this is not very clear. Therefore, effective snowfall in the northern, inner, and eastern regions of the country may be seen by the end of January."
IT WILL BE THE COLDEST WINTER IN THE LAST 9 YEARS
Bozyurt noted that the winter season has not been significantly harsh since 2016, indicating that he foresees a tougher scenario for this year. Reminding his previous statement, "I expect the coldest winter in the last 9 years," Bozyurt expressed that recent developments support this expectation.
Bozyurt stated that temperatures in February could drop below seasonal norms, and harsh winter conditions could continue until the first half of March.