After days of scorching heat, Istanbul is bracing for a sudden cooling trend. A cold wave from the north is expected to bring significant temperature drops and rainfall starting Friday.
- Temperatures in Istanbul are set to drop by 10°C starting Friday.
- Cold winds from the north will trigger thunderstorms and heavy rain.
- The cooling system will move east by Saturday evening.
The intense summer heatwave that has gripped Istanbul since the beginning of the week is about to break. According to the General Directorate of Meteorology and local experts, while Thursday will remain hot, a significant shift in weather patterns is imminent by Friday.
A Sudden 10-Degree Plunge
Adil Tek, an expert from the Boğaziçi University Kandilli Observatory Meteorology Laboratory, stated that the warm air currents originating from North Africa will be replaced by cooler northern winds starting Thursday evening. Temperatures, which are expected to hover around 31-32°C on Thursday, could plummet to as low as 21°C by Friday.
Tek further noted that light rainfall expected on Friday morning is likely to intensify in the afternoon. While the risk is higher in the Anatolian side and northern districts, areas like Beylikdüzü and Bakırköy are also expected to experience the impact. Nighttime temperatures could drop to 18°C, causing a noticeable chill for residents.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that such rapid atmospheric transitions can lead to sudden shifts in urban energy consumption and public health requirements. The transition from extreme heat to sudden cool rain necessitates immediate preparation for seasonal health changes.
The convergence of moist air from the Black Sea with incoming cold fronts will trigger localized thunderstorms across the Marmara region.
Dr. Öğr. Üyesi Güven Özdemir from Istanbul Aydın University and meteorologist Sinan Şahinoğlu highlighted a low-pressure system approaching the Black Sea via Crimea. They warned of strong 'Poyraz' winds (northeasterly) reaching speeds of 40-60 km/h on Friday, accompanied by thunderstorms due to the interaction of moisture and cold air.
Looking Ahead: Weekend Forecast
The weather system is expected to move eastward and exit the Istanbul region by Saturday evening. As the rainfall subsides, temperatures are projected to climb back to the 28-29°C range by Sunday. Experts suggest that summer-like temperatures may continue to remain above seasonal norms throughout September.
| Day | Expected Temp (°C) | Weather Condition |
|---|---|---|
| Thursday | 31-32°C | Hot & Sunny |
| Friday | 21°C | Rain & Wind |
| Sunday | 28-29°C | Partly Cloudy |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When will the rain start in Istanbul?
Rain is expected to start lightly on Friday morning and intensify in the afternoon.
2. Will the heat return?
Yes, temperatures are expected to rise again toward the end of the weekend.
