Istanbul snowstorm continues to cause widespread travel disruptions as heavy snowfall, icy roads, and freezing temperatures grip the city.
Turkish Airlines has announced further flight cancellations due to deteriorating weather conditions, while municipal teams work around the clock to keep roads passable.
Snowfall, which began intensifying on February 19, has now persisted for four consecutive days, with no immediate relief in sight. In some districts, snow accumulations have reached up to 40 cm (16 inches), particularly in northern and higher-altitude areas. The Istanbul Disaster Coordination Center (AKOM) has confirmed that temperatures will remain well below seasonal norms until at least February 25, prolonging the challenges for residents and travelers alike.
Flight Disruptions & Travel Delays
Turkish Airlines announced that additional flights departing from and arriving at Istanbul Airport have been canceled on February 23 due to continued adverse weather conditions.
Affected passengers have been granted alternative options for rescheduling or refunds, and travelers are advised to check real-time updates through the airline’s official website or TK Assistant via WhatsApp.
The snowfall has not only affected air travel but has also made ground transportation increasingly difficult. While major highways, including the D-100 and TEM, have been kept open with continuous salting operations, side streets remain treacherous. In areas like Esenyurt, Avcılar, and Beylikdüzü, icy roads have caused delays, with vehicles struggling to navigate slippery inclines.
A particularly challenging moment was witnessed in Büyükçekmece Tepecik, where a minibus became stuck on a snow-covered ramp and had to be pushed by citizens. On Barbaros Boulevard in Beşiktaş, sudden heavy snowfall led to dangerous road conditions, forcing teams to deploy snowplows.
Istanbul’s Freezing Forecast: How Long Will This Last?
According to meteorologists, Istanbul’s temperatures will remain 6-8 degrees Celsius below seasonal norms until February 25. Snowfall is expected to continue intermittently through the weekend, especially in northern districts such as Beykoz and Ümraniye, where icy roads have already caused difficulties for morning commuters.
From February 26 to March 10, temperatures are expected to gradually return to seasonal averages, offering some relief. However, residents and visitors should remain cautious, as ice formation on roads and sidewalks will likely persist for several days even after snowfall subsides.
Locals Make the Most of Istanbul’s Snowy Scenes
Despite the travel disruptions, Istanbul’s transformed winter wonderland has not gone unnoticed by locals. In Başakşehir National Garden, families took to the snow-covered park for winter walks and sledding, while children in neighborhoods like Esenyurt and Beykoz made the most of the icy conditions—sledding on makeshift plastic trays and even using trucks as impromptu ski lifts.
In Çekmeköy, a community leader, Engin Çelik, handed out books and sports shoes to children enjoying the snowy day, turning the unexpected cold snap into a moment of joy.
With temperatures set to remain frigid and travel disruptions likely to continue, residents and travelers should prepare accordingly. Will Istanbul finally thaw out by next week? Time will tell.
