Snowfall in Istanbul: Transport and educational activities paralysed
On 12 January 2026, due to adverse weather conditions in Istanbul, significant restrictions were imposed on transport and the educational process. Snowfalls, ice and strong winds caused the cancellation of a significant number of flights and the temporary closure of schools in the city, according to Hurriyetdailynews.
According to Turkish Airlines, 54 flights from and to Istanbul Airport were cancelled on the instructions of the Meteorological Emergency Committee. Yahya Ustun, Vice President of the airline, confirmed that another 24 flights were cancelled by AJet from Sabiha Gokcen Airport. This brings the total number of cancelled flights to at least 78 in one day.
Worsening weather conditions have also become a problem for urban life. The heaviest snowfall was observed in the western and northern areas such as Silivri and Chatalji, while freezing rain prevailed in the central parts of the city. Despite the reduced traffic, major highways and bridge approaches were jammed with cars.
The Istanbul Governorate has decided to suspend classes in all educational institutions, both public and private, for one day. The administration has also introduced administrative leave for pregnant women, mothers of young children and other groups in need of special protection.
According to the Turkish Meteorological Service, a cold front has covered most of the country, and a yellow level of danger has been declared for a number of regions due to the likelihood of snowfall, flooding and avalanches. In several provinces, such as Kocaeli, Yalova and Tunceli, classes have also been suspended, and some settlements in the east of the country have been left without electricity.
Photo Hurriyetdailynews.
Istanbul, Turkey, snowfall, Turkish Airlines
