Snowfall Transforms Tekirdağ and Kocaeli High Altitudes
Istanbul, Turkey, February 23, 2026 – Following a severe weather warning from the Directorate General of Meteorology for the Thracian region, heavy snowfall has blanketed the high altitudes of Tekirdağ and Kocaeli, transforming these areas into a winter landscape. The snowfall, which began on Sunday night, February 22, 2026, has particularly affected the Ganos Mountain region in Tekirdağ and the summit of Kartepe in Kocaeli.
In Tekirdağ, the snowfall has been effective in the higher elevations of Süleymanpaşa, Malkara, Şarköy, and Hayrabolu districts. Ganos Mountain and its foothills are now covered in a thick layer of snow, with intermittent snowfall expected to continue throughout the day in these elevated areas. The Tekirdağ Metropolitan Municipality teams have deployed heavy machinery to ensure that snow-covered roads remain open and accessible for traffic.
Kartepe’s Summit Turns White
Meanwhile, in Kocaeli, a significant drop in air temperatures led to the anticipated snowfall on Kartepe, a prominent winter tourism destination. The meteorological forecast had predicted a temperature drop of approximately 10 degrees Celsius over the weekend, following seasonal norms on Thursday and Friday. As a result, the summit of Kartepe, located in the Samanlı Mountains, quickly turned white with heavy, continuous snowfall.
The snowfall is expected to persist throughout the day in Kartepe, further enhancing its appeal as a winter getaway. Local authorities are monitoring the situation closely and are prepared to manage any disruptions caused by the weather conditions.
Local Response and Continued Forecast
Both Tekirdağ and Kocaeli municipalities are actively engaged in snow removal and road maintenance operations to minimize the impact of the heavy snowfall on daily life. Residents in affected areas have been advised to exercise caution while traveling and to stay informed about the latest weather updates.
This significant snowfall event aligns with the meteorological warnings issued for the region, highlighting the rapid change in weather patterns. While it brings picturesque winter scenes, it also necessitates ongoing efforts from local authorities to ensure public safety and maintain infrastructure functionality.
