Heavy Rainfall Triggers Flooding in Istanbul
Torrential rains that hit Istanbul on October 14 caused widespread flooding, disrupted traffic, and inundated residential homes and commercial properties. According to the international news agency Associated Press, two people died as a result of the incidents.
According to the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality’s Disaster Coordination Center (AKOM), rainfall reached record levels in some parts of the city. In the Beykoz district, precipitation reached 255.8 kg per square meter, while Eyüpsultan recorded 195.9 kg and Sarıyer 195.6 kg. In some districts, these figures ranked among the highest recorded since 1985.
The heavy rains flooded roads, underpasses, ground floors of buildings, and basements. Some vehicles were submerged or swept out of position by rushing water, while residents and employees were unable to leave flooded buildings on their own. Emergency services carried out evacuations, using boats and specialized equipment.
According to the Istanbul Governor’s Office, emergency services received 2,518 reports of incidents between 6:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. on October 14. The reported incidents included 1,277 cases of flooding, 15 landslides, and 47 situations in which people required assistance because they were unable to escape dangerous locations.
Authorities announced the suspension of in-person classes at all public and private educational institutions across the city on October 15. Temporary restrictions were also imposed on motorcycles and other two-wheeled vehicles. Residents were advised to stay home unless necessary and avoid traveling along flooded streets.
According to Associated Press, those who died included a 14-year-old teenager who was electrocuted in a puddle in the Fatih district and a 34-year-old man who slipped on a flooded street in the Sarıyer district and struck his head.
Municipal and emergency services continue to deal with the aftermath of the severe weather. According to AKOM, the heaviest rainfall affected districts along the Bosphorus, as well as the northern and central parts of the city’s European side.
