The rain that was effective over the weekend in Bitlis gave way to snowfall at higher elevations. Meanwhile, some people who came to the shores of Lake Van, close to the city center, went swimming in the cool waters despite the cold weather.
In the city, the rain that has continued intermittently for the past two days turned into snow in high-altitude areas. A group that went up Mount Nemrut to enjoy the scenery encountered heavy snowfall, could not proceed with their vehicles, and had to turn back. While the snow caused difficult moments for drivers in the highlands, some visitors along the shores of Lake Van picnicked and swam in the lake, undeterred by the chilly waters.
HYPOTHERMIA WARNING
Assoc. Prof. Cihan Önen, a faculty member at the Faculty of Health Sciences of Bitlis Eren University (BEÜ) and the Bitlis Representative of the Anatolian Underwater Research and Sports Association (ASAD), warned those entering the lake in cold weather about hypothermia. Assoc. Prof. Önen said:
“Swimming in water close to freezing temperatures or suddenly entering cold water can rapidly increase heat loss from the body, leading to cold shock and subsequently hypothermia. In mountainous and high-altitude regions, temperatures can drop significantly depending on the slope. People driving in such rural areas should also be cautious of risks such as freezing, being stranded, or traffic accidents.”
