Istanbul Floods Trigger Chaos Across the City as Torrential Rain Kills Two
Istanbul floods have caused widespread disruption across Türkiye’s largest city after torrential rain triggered flash flooding, swept away vehicles and disrupted air travel. At least two people have died, while authorities have warned residents to take precautions as further heavy rain is expected.
Istanbul Floods Cause Widespread Damage
The Istanbul floods began after heavy rain hit the city on Wednesday morning, intensifying throughout the day and causing severe disruption in several districts. Fast-flowing floodwaters swept away cars, flooded streets and left residents stranded as emergency teams responded to incidents across the city.
Istanbul Governor Davut Gül said the city had experienced its highest level of precipitation since records began in 1942. The Istanbul Municipality also reported that some areas had recorded their heaviest rainfall since 1985.
At least two people died as a result of the severe weather. One victim was a 14-year-old boy who was electrocuted after stepping into a puddle in the Balat district. He was taken to hospital but later died. Three other people were treated in hospital.
Schools Closed After Istanbul Floods
Authorities announced the closure of schools across Istanbul until Monday as the city dealt with the aftermath of the flooding. Governor Davut Gül urged residents to stay at home unless travel was absolutely necessary.
Residents living in basement properties were advised to spend the night on higher floors, while people were warned to stay away from stream beds, underpasses and other areas at risk of flooding.
Footage from the city showed vehicles being carried away by muddy water in the northern Sarıyer district. Some residents were rescued through a first-floor window, while two people climbed into the bucket of a mechanical digger to escape the floodwaters.
Flights Diverted as Flooding Disrupts Istanbul
The severe weather also disrupted air travel. A total of 43 flights bound for Istanbul Airport were diverted, while three flights heading to Sabiha Gökçen Airport were redirected. Sabiha Gökçen temporarily suspended take-offs because of strong winds.
Türkiye’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) established a crisis desk to coordinate the response. By Wednesday evening, authorities had recorded 1,277 flooding incidents and 15 landslides. Forty-seven people had been stranded, while two roofs had been blown off.
More Heavy Rain Expected in Istanbul
The Istanbul floods have raised further concerns as heavy rain is expected to continue over the weekend. Authorities have urged residents to follow safety warnings and avoid areas vulnerable to flooding.
Emergency teams continue to respond to the effects of the downpour as the city works to recover from the widespread disruption.
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Source: NationalTurk
