Snow and storm warning for Istanbul: AKOM provides a timeline!

An orange-coded warning has been issued by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IBB) Disaster Coordination Center (AKOM). According to the report published on February 18, 2025, severe weather conditions will take effect starting tomorrow afternoon.

It was stated that due to a cold air wave coming from Siberia, there will be a combination of storms and snowfall.

According to the warnings issued by AKOM, the storm will begin to show its effect starting Wednesday, February 19, at 10:00 AM. Rain will begin in the afternoon. Sleet will be seen in higher elevations. After 10:00 PM, snowfall will be effective across Istanbul.

SNOW DEPTH MAY REACH 40 CM

According to AKOM's estimates, snow depth will vary by region:

• 5-15 cm south of the E-5 (central districts),
• 10-30 cm between the E-5 and TEM,
• 20-40 cm north of the TEM and in higher elevations,
• A snow cover of 40 cm and above will form in northern regions and high-altitude areas.

DANGER OF ICING AND FROST

With temperatures expected to drop below zero starting Thursday evening, February 20, icing and frost events are anticipated. It was emphasized that caution should be exercised against negative impacts such as transportation disruptions, power and natural gas outages, roof damage, fallen trees, and stove poisoning.

WARNING FROM AKOM

Stating that public institutions and citizens should take the necessary precautions, AKOM recommended the following measures:

• Do not go out in traffic unless necessary,
• Keep winter tires and chains in vehicles,
• Protect water, natural gas, and electrical installations,
• Provide shelter and food for stray animals.

While weather conditions are expected to be effective in Istanbul for at least a week, it is advised to follow developments through announcements from AKOM and the General Directorate of Meteorology.