Intense snowfall across several districts of Istanbul has led to the closure of schools and significant disruptions to daily life, particularly on the European side of the city.

The adverse weather conditions have prompted local authorities to take precautionary measures, while residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel.

Schools in six districts—Başakşehir, Esenyurt, Sultangazi, Beykoz, Avcılar, and Arnavutköy—have been closed for the day, as announced by the Istanbul Governor’s Office. The decision was made by the District Public Health Boards, which have been authorized to suspend education in areas impacted by the heavy snowfall.

“Education has been suspended for one day (Tuesday, February 11, 2025) in the districts of Başakşehir, Esenyurt, Sultangazi, Beykoz, Avcılar, and Arnavutköy, based on the decision of the District Public Health Board,” the Governor’s Office stated in a press release. 

The snowfall, which began early Tuesday morning, has been particularly intense in the northern and higher-altitude districts, including Beylikdüzü, Silivri, Büyükçekmece, and Arnavutköy. However, the southern and central districts of Istanbul remain unaffected, and education continues uninterrupted in those areas.

The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IMM) has advised residents to avoid using personal vehicles due to hazardous road conditions caused by the snow. Authorities are working to clear roads, but icy conditions and reduced visibility have made travel challenging in the affected districts. 

Air travel has also been impacted, with Sabiha Gökçen Airport reporting cancellations. Approximately 5% of flights scheduled for today (February 11) and 10% of flights planned for tomorrow (February 12) have been canceled due to the weather. Travelers are advised to check with airlines for updates on flight statuses.

The snowfall, which has been heaviest in the northern districts, is expected to continue affecting these areas throughout the day. Residents in impacted districts are urged to stay informed about weather updates and follow safety recommendations from local authorities.

For more details on school closures, road conditions, and flight updates, citizens are encouraged to monitor announcements from the Istanbul Governor’s Office and the IMM. (ILKHA)