ANKARA, March 21 (Xinhua) -- Heavy snowfall has impacted Türkiye's central Anatolia area and eastern regions, disrupting transportation and daily life, local IHA news agency reported on Friday.
The report said 911 people were stranded on the highways connecting Kayseri to Malatya, Gurun, and Goksun in Anatolia, adding they were later rescued by emergency teams.
In Sivas province, east of Anatolia, the Sivas-Gurun highway was closed due to blizzards. Security teams took precautions by blocking the road and preventing vehicle passage. However, rescue teams reportedly responded to four traffic accidents, and one missing person was found.
The Geminbeli Pass, a crucial route connecting Anatolia to the Black Sea region, was also affected by heavy snowfall. Many drivers, caught off guard, were left stranded. Road maintenance teams were working to clear snow and reopen roads.
Turkish State Meteorological Service predicted that heavy rain and snowfall would likely continue in several areas, including Istanbul, throughout the day, warning of possible transportation disruptions, icy roads, and avalanche risks in high-altitude areas.
Additionally, a yellow-coded weather warning has been issued for Giresun, Ordu, and Samsun, indicating potentially hazardous weather conditions. Authorities have urged residents, particularly those outdoors, to remain cautious. ■
