Severe winter weather across several Turkish provinces has led to widespread disruptions, most notably impacting educational institutions. Heavy snowfall has prompted authorities to suspend classes in numerous cities and districts, affecting students and families alike. The disruptions highlight the challenges faced by communities in navigating harsh winter conditions and ensuring the continuity of essential services like education.
The recent heavy snowfall isn’t an isolated incident. Turkey frequently experiences severe winter weather, particularly in its eastern and mountainous regions. These conditions often lead to school closures, transportation delays, and logistical difficulties for residents. This year, the impact appears to be particularly widespread, affecting a significant number of provinces and prompting a coordinated response from local governments.
Widespread School Closures: A Province-by-Province Overview
As of today, February 26, 2026, reports indicate that educational activities have been suspended in several provinces due to heavy snowfall. Initial reports, corroborated by multiple sources, confirm closures in Trabzon, Van, Erzurum, Sivas, Gümüşhane, Bingöl, Erzincan, Tunceli, and Ordu. Mynet Egitim reports that these closures are a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of students and staff.
The situation varies within provinces, with closures often targeting specific districts or schools based on local conditions. For example, while a province-wide closure may be in effect, schools in areas less affected by snowfall might remain open. Local authorities are continuously monitoring the weather and making adjustments to closure decisions as needed. TRT Haber indicates that 13 provinces are currently affected by these closures.
Impact on Transportation and Daily Life
Beyond education, the heavy snowfall has significantly impacted transportation networks across the affected regions. Roads have been closed, and travel has been severely disrupted, leading to delays and cancellations for commuters and travelers. Local authorities are working to clear roads and restore transportation services, but progress is hampered by the ongoing snowfall. The disruption extends to public transportation, with bus services experiencing delays and cancellations. Rome2Rio provides information on travel options between cities like Trabzon and Erzurum, but current conditions are likely to affect these routes.
The snowfall has also impacted daily life for residents, with many businesses and services experiencing closures or reduced hours. Residents are advised to exercise caution when venturing outdoors and to follow the guidance of local authorities. The Turkish government has mobilized resources to assist affected communities, providing emergency supplies and support to those in necessitate.
FlixBus Services Affected
Bus travel, a common mode of transportation in Turkey, has also been affected by the severe weather. FlixBus, a major bus operator in the region, is experiencing disruptions to its services between cities like Trabzon and Erzurum. According to FlixBus, the journey between Trabzon and Erzurum typically takes around 3 hours and 55 minutes, with fares starting from €14.48. However, current conditions are likely to cause delays and cancellations. FlixBus operates 3 rides each day between Trabzon and Erzurum, with the first bus departing at 01:00 and the last at 23:00. Passengers are advised to check the FlixBus website or app for the latest updates on their travel plans.
The average trip duration is reported as 4 hours and 14 minutes, covering a distance of 331 km. FlixBus emphasizes its commitment to passenger comfort, offering amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and extra leg space. However, the availability of these amenities may be subject to change due to the current weather conditions.
Busbud Offers Alternative Options
Busbud, another platform for booking bus tickets, also provides information on travel options between Trabzon and Erzurum. Busbud shows that the journey takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, with fares starting at $17. Several departures are available throughout the day, operated by different bus companies. Busbud highlights the convenience of booking tickets online and the availability of free cancellations with certain operators.
According to Busbud’s data for February 26th, departures from Trabzon Otogarı are scheduled for 5:00 AM, 5:00 PM, 2:30 AM, and 8:15 PM, arriving at Erzurum Otogarı at 10:00 AM, 9:30 PM, 7:00 AM, and 12:45 AM respectively. These schedules are subject to change due to the ongoing weather conditions.
Looking Ahead: Continued Monitoring and Potential for Further Disruptions
Meteorological authorities are continuing to monitor the weather situation closely, and further snowfall is expected in the coming days. This raises the possibility of continued disruptions to education, transportation, and daily life in the affected provinces. Local authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and to follow official guidance. The focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of communities impacted by the severe winter weather.
The Turkish government is coordinating a national response to the crisis, mobilizing resources and providing assistance to affected regions. Efforts are underway to clear roads, restore transportation services, and provide emergency supplies to those in need. The situation is dynamic, and authorities are prepared to adjust their response as conditions evolve.
The next official update regarding school closures is expected from the Ministry of National Education on February 27, 2026. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and to exercise caution during this period of inclement weather. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.
What are your experiences with the winter weather in Turkey? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below.
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