Does It Snow in Turkey? A Guide to Snowfall Across the Country
Looking to understand where snow occurs in Turkey? Whether you're visiting for the winter season or planning to live there year-round, knowing about snowfall patterns can be incredibly useful. From mountain peaks to the coldest regions, Turkey experiences diverse weather. In this guide, we explore snow patterns across different cities, including Erzurum and Ardahan, as well as the plateau regions.
Erzurum: The Coldest Major City in Turkey
Erzurum is often known as the coldest city in Turkey. Located in Eastern Turkey, Erzurum reaches its winter peak with significant snowfall. On September 23rd, 2024, the weather report indicates that there is no likely snow on the lower ground, as it is currently raining. However, substantial snow can be seen at higher elevations.
Even a few weeks into winter, Erzurum may transform into a snowy wonderland. According to historical data, there are notable scenes of snow opening on the roads in January. Additionally, the average snowfall in the region adds to the winter charm, with mountains like Ararat and Cilo covered in snow. Although not as snowy as Erzurum, many areas in Eastern Turkey, which sit above 2000 meters, experience snow for 6-8 months of the year due to the plateau terrain.
The Coldest Place in Turkey: Ardahan
When considering the coldest area in Turkey, Ardahan holds the title. It is a region that is almost always covered in snow throughout the year. Historically, Ardahan experiences heavy snowfall, indicating its extreme cold temperatures.
Even if you visit during summer, you still might encounter snow or ice on the ground, making it a unique environment year-round. Explorers and nature enthusiasts often visit this region precisely for its extreme cold and snow-covered landscapes.
Snow in Other Turkish Cities
While Erzurum and Ardahan are well-known for their snow, other cities in Turkey also experience significant snowfall:
Istanbul with Snow at the Airport: Although not as common as in the colder regions, Istanbul can surprise visitors with unexpected snow at the airport. This usually happens in rare winter storms but adds a unique touch to the city. Orhan Pamuk's Snow: Author Orhan Pamuk’s book 'Snow' vividly portrays the winter landscapes around Kars, a city and province in Northeast Turkey. This region, which lies on the High Plateau, experiences a long-lasting snow cover from late autumn through early spring. While the book's title is 'Kar' (Snow) in Turkish, the English translation is accurate and evokes the icy atmosphere of the snowy Kars region. Other Snow-Prone Areas: Cities like Van, Bursa, and Ankara in the Eastern and Black Sea regions also see significant snowfall. Ankara, the capital, can experience numerous snow days, adding to its charm during the winter months.Turkey's Winter Climates
As a country situated in the northern part of the Middle East and partially within Europe, Turkey experiences a wide range of winter climates, especially in its mountainous regions. The eastern and northeastern regions, as well as the Black Sea and Caucuses areas, are notably more affected by snowfall than the western parts.
In places like Istanbul and Edirne, snow is less common, with occasional winter storms bringing in colder temperatures and snow. However, the cities and regions closer to the Caucasus Mountains, such as Erzurum and Van, see heavier snowfall. This makes regions like Erzurum an ideal destination for skiing and winter sports.
Understanding this geographical diversity can greatly enhance your winter experience in Turkey. Whether you're experiencing the snow in Erzurum, the perpetual cold in Ardahan, or the occasional snowy days in other Turkish cities, Turkey offers a unique and diverse climate for winter enthusiasts.