Severe winter conditions hit eastern Turkey

Heavy snow has begun to fall as temperatures hit early winter lows in eastern Turkey, hitting daily life for many locals. 

Snowfall began on Nov. 1 in the eastern provinces of Erzurum, Ardahan, Kars and Ağrı, blocking hundreds of roads were to a number of remote villages and snarling traffic, particularly on the road linking Erzurum and Ağrı. The road linking Ağrı to the eastern province of Iğdır was also closed to traffic due to heavy snow. 

A number of vehicles drifted off roads, while heavy trucks became trapped, as the height of snow rose to 50 centimeters in some areas. 

Highway officials worked to clear the roads and prevent traffic congestions caused by the tough conditions.
The district governor's office in the Diyadin district of Ağrı province suspended education for one day on Nov. 2 across the district due to the snow. 

Education was also suspended at a number of schools at high altitudes in Iğdır province.  

However, the early snowfall prompted hotels in the Palandöken and Sarıkamış ski resorts in Turkey's eastern provinces to step up preparations for the winter season.