ISTANBUL, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- Snow depth at Türkiye's major ski resorts remains at early-season levels, prompting facilities to activate artificial snowmaking systems ahead of the winter tourism season.
According to data released by the Turkish State Meteorological Service on Saturday, Palandoken Ski Resort in the eastern province of Erzurum recorded the greatest snow depth at 15 cm, while Erciyes Ski Resort in central Kayseri province reported 5 cm.
At Uludag -- Türkiye's largest ski resort, home to 17 hotels and facilities with a total capacity of 5,000 beds -- snow depth measured 6 cm, well below seasonal norms. The resort had reached 63 cm of snow in December 2024.
Officials noted that natural snow must reach between 50 and 70 cm for slopes to become fully suitable for skiing.
With nighttime temperatures falling below freezing, snowmaking operations have intensified at resorts with advanced technical infrastructure to ensure slopes are skiable and the season opens on time, state broadcaster TRT reported.
Despite limited natural snow, accommodation facilities across the country are reporting rising reservations ahead of the New Year holiday. ■