Rize province experienced a drop in temperatures below seasonal norms, leading to snowfall in high altitude areas which continued overnight. The Kaçkar Mountains and surrounding plateaus, including the 2,600-meter-high Ovit Mountain and the 2,300-meter-high Anzer Plateau in the Ikizdere district, were covered in a white blanket of snow. Additionally, snowfall has been occurring intermittently for the past two days in the high-altitude plateaus of Giresun province.
Inland areas such as Şebinkarahisar, Alucra, and Çamoluk districts, located on the route of the 2,200-meter-high Eğribel pass, have seen snow depths reaching up to approximately 25 centimeters. This heavy snowfall has also affected the Kulakkaya and Bektaş plateaus in the Dereli district, where snow depths have reached 10 centimeters in the centers.
Furthermore, snowfall has been reported in various areas of Artvin province, including the Mersivan and Karcal mountains, the Bilbilan Plateau in Ardanuç, the Lekoban Plateau in Camili, and the Arsiyan, Papart, and Sahara plateaus in Şavşat. Meanwhile, lower altitude regions of the province are experiencing intermittent rain and fog.
Overall, the drop in temperatures in Rize and Artvin provinces has brought about snowfall in high-altitude areas, creating a picturesque winter scene in the mountainous regions. The snowfall has led to significant accumulations in various plateaus and mountains, with snow depths ranging from 10 to 25 centimeters. Additionally, lower altitude areas are also being affected by rain and fog, adding to the wintry atmosphere of the region.
The snowfall in Rize and Artvin provinces has delighted residents and visitors alike, as the snow-covered landscapes offer a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities and winter sports. The picturesque scenes of snow-capped mountains and plateaus have attracted many tourists to the region, seeking to enjoy the natural beauty and serenity of the snow-covered landscapes. Local authorities have also taken measures to ensure the safety of residents and travelers, particularly on mountainous roads where snow removal and road maintenance are underway.
As the winter weather continues to bring snowfall to high-altitude areas in Rize and Artvin provinces, residents and tourists are advised to exercise caution when traveling in the region. Road conditions may be affected by snow and ice, necessitating careful driving and adherence to safety guidelines. Despite the challenges posed by the winter weather, the snowfall has created a magical atmosphere in the mountainous regions, attracting visitors and locals alike to enjoy the beauty of the snow-covered landscapes.