6distinct climate zones
−38°C / −36°Fcoldest recorded extreme
2,200 mm / 87 inpeak annual rainfall (E. Black Sea)
120 dayssnow cover in Eastern Anatolia
General Climate Patterns
Most of Türkiye's rainfall arrives in winter. During this season, mean temperatures
typically remain below 5°C (41°F), limiting evaporation and allowing moisture to
persist. Summer rainfall, by contrast, is limited across much of the country —
often insufficient to offset the water deficit created by high temperatures and
increased evaporation. The mountain ranges running parallel to the coasts act as
barriers, creating sharp climate differences between coastal and inland areas even
over short distances.
Climate Zones at a Glance
Regional Climate Breakdown
Southern & Western Coast
Mediterranean & Aegean
❄ Winter avg
9°C48°F
☀ Summer avg
29°C84°F
Annual rainfall
580–1,300 mm · 23–51 in
Cool, rainy winters — hot, moderately dry summers. Classic Mediterranean pattern with high sunshine hours.
Northern Coast
Black Sea Coast
❄ Winter avg
7°C45°F
☀ Summer avg
23°C73°F
Annual rainfall (east)
Up to 2,200 mm · 87 in
The only region in Türkiye with year-round rainfall. Wet, humid and lush — the eastern Black Sea is among the rainiest areas in Europe.
Interior Plateau
Central Anatolia
❄ Winter avg
−2°C28°F
☀ Summer avg
23°C73°F
Annual rainfall
300–400 mm · 12–16 in
A steppe climate with large day-to-night temperature swings. The driest region in the country — snow is common in winter but rainfall is sparse.
High-Altitude Plateau · 2,500–3,000 m / 8,200–9,840 ft
Eastern Anatolia
❄ Winter avg
−13°C9°F
☀ Summer avg
17°C63°F
⚠ Extremes
−30 to −38°C−22 to −36°F
Snow cover
~120 days per year
Türkiye's harshest continental climate. Long, severe winters regularly isolate mountain villages. Summer is brief and mild.
Southeast Plains
Southeastern Anatolia
☀ Summer
> 30°C> 86°F
Spring / Autumn
Mild but variable
Annual rainfall
300–500 mm · 12–20 in
Summers are intensely hot and dry — temperatures regularly surpass 40°C (104°F) at peak. Spring and autumn are mild but prone to sudden sharp weather changes.
Istanbul & Surroundings
Marmara Region
❄ Winter avg
4°C39°F
☀ Summer avg
27°C81°F
Annual rainfall
600–800 mm · 24–31 in
A moderate transition zone between Black Sea and Mediterranean climates. Winters can occasionally drop below freezing, and snowfall in İstanbul is possible.
Climate Summary
| Region | Winter Average | Summer Average | Key Characteristic |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mediterranean & Aegean | 9°C / 48°F | 29°C / 84°F | Sunny, hot summers · cool rainy winters |
| Black Sea | 7°C / 45°F | 23°C / 73°F | Year-round rainfall · lush and humid |
| Central Anatolia | −2°C / 28°F | 23°C / 73°F | Steppe climate · snowy winters · low rainfall |
| Eastern Anatolia | −13°C / 9°F | 17°C / 63°F | Harsh winters · 120 days snow cover |
| Southeastern Anatolia | Mild | > 30°C / > 86°F | Intensely hot dry summers · variable spring |
| Marmara | 4°C / 39°F | 27°C / 81°F | Moderate transition zone · occasional snow |
References
- Sensoy, S., Demircan, M., Ulupinar, Y. & Balta, I. (2024). Climate of Turkey. Turkish State Meteorological Service (MGM).
- Turkish State Meteorological Service (MGM) — Official Annual Climate Assessment and Historical Weather Data.
Temperature averages are regional means sourced from the Turkish State Meteorological Service (MGM). Precipitation figures are approximate annual ranges.