Turkey is a country of stunning landscapes and diverse climates, stretching from the Mediterranean coast to the mountainous east. But when it comes to cold weather, many wonder: how cold does it get in Turkey? Let’s take a friendly and detailed look at Turkey’s coldest temperatures, where they occur, and what makes these chilly extremes so fascinating.
Turkey’s Coldest Temperature Records
Turkey experiences a wide range of temperatures depending on the region and season. While coastal areas enjoy milder winters, the eastern parts of Turkey can plunge into severe cold, especially during winter months.
– The lowest temperature ever recorded in Turkey was an astonishing -46.4°C (-51.5°F), reported in the eastern region, where Siberian cold fronts sweep through and snow can pile up to 1.5–2 meters deep.
– Another notably cold spot is the city of Erzurum in Eastern Anatolia, often called Turkey’s coldest province. Here, temperatures have dropped as low as -37.2°C (-35°F) on record. More recently, temperatures around -34°C (-29°F) have been measured in Erzurum and nearby districts like Tekman.
– In the northeastern province of Ardahan, temperatures have also plunged to -40°C (-40°F), breaking records in recent years.
– Other eastern provinces such as Kars, Ağrı, and Erzincan regularly experience winter lows ranging from -18°C to -26°C (0°F to -15°F), with rivers freezing and heavy snowfalls impacting daily life.
Cold Weather in Other Parts of Turkey
While the eastern regions are known for their bitter cold, what about the rest of Turkey?
– In Istanbul, the coldest recorded temperature is around -16°C (3°F), which is quite chilly but nowhere near the extremes of the east.
– Central Anatolia and other inland areas can experience winter lows between -20°C to -30°C (-4°F to -22°F) during cold snaps, especially in mountainous districts like Sivas and Kayseri.
– The Mediterranean and Aegean coastal areas, including cities like Antalya and Izmir, have much milder winters, rarely dropping below freezing.
What Causes These Extreme Lows?
Turkey’s geography plays a big role in its temperature variations:
– The eastern part of Turkey is mountainous and elevated, exposing it to cold air masses from Siberia and Eastern Europe, which cause severe winter cold spells.
– The central plateau also experiences cold winters due to its elevation and distance from the moderating influence of the sea.
– Coastal regions benefit from the Mediterranean and Aegean seas, which keep temperatures relatively mild year-round.
Living with the Cold in Turkey
The extreme cold in eastern Turkey affects daily life significantly:
– Roads to hundreds of villages can be closed due to heavy snow and ice.
– Residents often cover their cars with blankets to protect them from freezing temperatures.
– Icicles several meters long can form on roofs, creating both beautiful and hazardous conditions.
– Despite the hardships, the freezing cold also creates stunning natural spectacles, like hot water thrown into the air instantly freezing into snow crystals, a popular sight in Erzurum.
Seasonal Overview: When to Expect the Coldest Weather
– The coldest months are typically December through February, with January often being the chilliest.
– Snowfall is common in the east and central highlands, sometimes lasting for months.
– Coastal areas see mild winters with occasional frost but rarely experience extreme cold.
Summary of Turkey’s Coldest Temperatures by Region
| Region | Typical Winter Lows | Record Low Temperatures |
|---|---|---|
| Eastern Anatolia | -20°C to -40°C (-4°F to -40°F) | -46.4°C (-51.5°F) recorded in the region |
| Erzurum | -25°C to -34°C (-13°F to -29°F) | -37.2°C (-35°F) recorded |
| Northeastern (Ardahan, Kars) | -18°C to -40°C (0°F to -40°F) | -40°C (-40°F) in Ardahan |
| Central Anatolia | -10°C to -30°C (14°F to -22°F) | Around -30.9°C (-23.6°F) in Sivas |
| Istanbul | Rarely below -10°C (14°F) | -16°C (3°F) recorded |
| Coastal Mediterranean & Aegean | Rarely below 0°C (32°F) | Mild winters, rarely freezing |
Turkey’s winters can be surprisingly harsh, especially in the east where temperatures can drop well below freezing, reaching record lows that rival some of the coldest parts of Europe and Asia. Whether you’re planning a trip or just curious, understanding how cold it gets in Turkey gives you a glimpse into the country’s diverse climate and the resilience of its people.
Cold weather in Turkey is not just about freezing temperatures-it’s a season full of stunning natural beauty and unique experiences.
Stay warm and enjoy the wonders of Turkey’s winter chills!