In brief
Istanbul was hit by its heaviest rainfall in 84 years, triggering severe flooding that claimed two lives—a 14‑year‑old boy and a 34‑year‑old man—and displaced hundreds of residents. The governor’s office reports that nearly 600 people were rescued as water overwhelmed cars and roads. Schools were shut for the weekend and airports suspended flights. Residents were advised to stay home and use public transport as the city’s metro extended operating hours. Authorities are investigating the accidents and expanding emergency response across the metropolitan area.
Two people have died after severe flooding caused by what the governor of Istanbul said was the heaviest rainfall in 84 years.
A 14‑year‑old boy was electrocuted after stepping in a puddle, while a 34‑year‑old man slipped and fell, hitting his head on the pavement.
Nearly 600 residents have been rescued after becoming stranded, with cars submerged and entire streets flooded.
The governor urged citizens to avoid leaving their homes unless absolutely necessary, and the city’s deputy mayor said 595 people had been evacuated to safe areas.
The interior ministry reports that rainfall in some districts is equivalent to one seventh of the annual average, prompting a citywide school closure and expected continued rainfall.
More than 8,000 workers are responding to the flooding and the metro’s operating hours have been extended to 2:00 a.m. local time.
Air traffic was also disrupted, with 46 planes unable to land at Istanbul airports due to the flooding.
A car park in a shopping centre in the Sariyer district was flooded, while roads collapsed and a river burst its banks.
The interior ministry has warned of potential sudden flooding in other provinces, and specific employee groups will receive administrative leave unless they are needed for critical services.
In response to the crisis, officials continue to monitor weather conditions and urge vigilance during nighttime hours, especially when heavy rain and storms are expected.
