The onset of winter in Türkiye has been marked by widespread snowfall across its central and eastern regions, transforming cities and rural areas into serene winter landscapes while bringing challenges of cold weather and disruptions to daily life.

With temperatures plunging to as low as minus 5 degrees Celsius (23 degrees Fahrenheit), the season’s first snow has arrived in full force, setting the stage for the colder months ahead.

From Kayseri to Niğde, the snow has painted rooftops, streets, and parks white, creating scenes of both beauty and urgency as residents and authorities respond to the changing weather. In Kayseri, the evening snowfall quickly blanketed the city, with local authorities launching snow removal operations, particularly in mountainous areas. The famous Erciyes Mountain, a sought-after ski destination, saw substantial snow accumulation, raising anticipation for winter sports enthusiasts.

In Yozgat, morning brought a complete transformation as the city awoke under a thick layer of snow. While road-clearing efforts got underway, the first snow brought excitement among locals, who welcomed the winter charm and expressed hope for more snowy days.

Similarly, Kırıkkale experienced an overnight snowstorm, leaving cars, parks, and rooftops covered in white. Residents scrambled to adapt, clearing their vehicles and adjusting to icy roads. Local teams worked diligently to ensure roads were navigable, minimizing disruptions for commuters.

In Sivas, temperatures dropped significantly, ushering in an early morning snowfall that blanketed the historic city center in white. The provincial governor’s office predicted continued snowfall until November 27, signaling a prolonged winter presence. The wintry scenery enhanced the city’s charm, though the accompanying cold posed challenges for locals.

Kırşehir, on the other hand, experienced a mix of rain and snow that transformed the city into a picturesque winter wonderland by morning. Snow removal teams acted swiftly to ensure village roads remained open, while agricultural workers prepared to mitigate potential disruptions to farming activities caused by the weather.

In Niğde, snow and strong winds intensified the winter’s impact, with the city center blanketed in snow and frigid winds adding to the harsh conditions. Road-clearing efforts began immediately to prevent major disruptions, but strong winds damaged the roof of a school in the Çiftlik district, underscoring the storm’s severity. Authorities urged caution on icy roads, particularly for nighttime travelers.

Uludağ, the prominent mountain resort in Bursa, received heavy snowfall of up to 50 centimeters (20 inches), creating a postcard-perfect winter scene. The area’s ski slopes are ready to welcome visitors, but treacherous road conditions have made access challenging. Authorities have mandated the use of snow chains or winter tires for vehicles traveling up the mountain. Despite these precautions, many vehicles without proper equipment became stuck, requiring assistance from local authorities and helpful travelers.

Meteorologists have warned of continued cold weather, with temperatures expected to drop by 10 to 15 degrees Celsius in cities like Eskişehir. Frost and ice risks are anticipated, making roads hazardous, particularly in rural areas such as Han and Mihalıççık, where temperatures may dip as low as minus 3 degrees Celsius.

Local authorities are urging caution, especially during nighttime travel, as freezing temperatures create slippery conditions. While the snow brings joy and signals the arrival of winter festivities, it also serves as a reminder of the challenges the season poses.

The snow-covered landscapes of Türkiye’s central and eastern regions encapsulate the duality of winter—a season of both beauty and challenge. As residents enjoy the season’s first snowfall, authorities remain vigilant to ensure safety and accessibility, balancing the wonder of winter with the responsibilities it demands. (ILKHA)