ISTANBUL, Turkey — Torrential rainfall has brought large parts of Istanbul to a standstill, flooding homes, businesses and major roads and leaving at least three people dead, according to Turkish authorities.
The downpour, which intensified on Wednesday, October 14, caused widespread flooding across Turkey’s largest city, submerging underpasses, stranding vehicles and creating severe traffic congestion. Fast-moving floodwaters swept parked cars through several neighbourhoods as emergency crews worked to rescue people trapped in flooded buildings and workplaces.
Record Rainfall Triggers Widespread Flooding
Officials described the rainfall as the heaviest Istanbul had experienced in more than 80 years. Istanbul Governor Davut Gül said the city recorded its highest precipitation levels since records began in 1942.
The flooding affected residential neighbourhoods, commercial properties and transport routes. Some roads were inundated, while reports also described damage to infrastructure and landslides. Power and water disruptions were reported in some areas as emergency teams began clearing floodwater and debris.
The Istanbul governor’s office confirmed three deaths. Among the victims was a 14-year-old boy who was electrocuted after stepping into a puddle in the Fatih district. A 34-year-old man reportedly died after slipping on a sidewalk in the Sariyer district and striking his head. Authorities also reported the discovery of a third victim’s body near a park in the Kagithane district.
Several people were reported missing as rescue and recovery operations continued.
Thousands Evacuated as Emergency Measures Take Effect
Emergency services worked to evacuate residents and rescue people stranded by the rising water. Officials said thousands of people were safely evacuated across the city as rescue teams responded to flooding incidents.
Authorities also introduced safety measures to limit further risks. School closures were extended, some public-sector workers were granted leave, and motorcycles were prohibited from roads until further notice.
Residents were urged to remain indoors unless travel was essential. People living in basement apartments were advised to move to higher floors or safer locations, while motorists were warned to avoid flooded roads, underpasses and other dangerous areas.
Climate Change Concerns Grow
Turkey’s Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change Minister Murat Kurum linked the disaster to changing rainfall patterns, warning that climate change was contributing to more intense rainfall events.
Weather officials forecast further showers across Istanbul and surrounding areas, raising concerns about additional flooding and continued disruption.
Authorities are continuing to assess the damage as cleanup operations proceed. The immediate priorities remain rescuing anyone still missing, restoring affected infrastructure and protecting residents from further severe weather.
Swifteradio.com
