A significant wave of heavy snowfall has impacted North Kurdistan and Turkey, causing widespread closures of schools and transportation routes and disrupting daily activities and mobility.

The educational institutions in 25 cities within North Kurdistan and 30 cities across Turkey announced closures in response to the heavy snowfall and adverse weather conditions on Friday. These measures aim to protect students and staff from potential hazards.

Roads Blocked in Thousands of Villages

More than 5,000 villages and rural areas in North Kurdistan have experienced road closures due to the heavy snow. The affected regions include Erzurum, Sevas, Mus, Jolemerg, and Harput provinces, where transportation infrastructure has been severely affected.

Rescue Operations Amid Snow-Related Incidents

Rescue teams have been actively assisting residents, successfully retrieving dozens of individuals trapped in snow in Jolemerg and Agri. The intense weather has posed serious risks, especially in remote and mountainous areas.

Tragic Avalanche Incident in Van

A 76-year-old woman died after being caught in an avalanche in Wan (Van). Despite prompt hospital treatment, she succumbed to her injuries. Authorities have evacuated several houses in Van due to concerns over further snow avalanches.

Temperature Drops and Continued Snowfall

Temperatures across most parts of North Kurdistan have fallen below zero degrees Celsius, exacerbating the ongoing snowfall and rain. Meteorological forecasts indicate that snowfall is expected to persist until Tuesday.

Official Weather Warnings

The Turkish Meteorological authorities has issued warnings for residents in 27 cities within North Kurdistan and Turkey, urging caution due to the forecast of heavy snow and rainfall over the coming days.