Heavy rainfall has led to severe flooding in Istanbul, resulting in two fatalities and the rescue of nearly 600 individuals. A 14-year-old died from electrocution in the Fatih district, and a 34-year-old sustained a fatal head injury after slipping in the Sariyer district.
Residents have been advised by Istanbul Governor Davut Gül to remain indoors unless absolutely necessary and to avoid driving private vehicles. Homes and buildings have been flooded, schools are shut, and roads are inaccessible due to high water levels. The city's deputy mayor, Nuri Aslan, stated that while rainfall has largely subsided, work continues to clear roads.
Travel has been significantly affected, with at least 53 flights cancelled on Thursday across Istanbul’s main airports. The UK’s Foreign Office (FCDO) has warned travellers about the heavy rainfall and flooding, advising them to monitor local media and follow instructions from local authorities.
The Turkish State Meteorological Service forecasts that heavy rainfall, which affected the eastern Marmara region, is expected to subside tonight but will resume on Friday. It is predicted to be particularly heavy in Istanbul, especially the northern districts on the European side, and in eastern Kırklareli, intensifying from Friday night and continuing strongly into Saturday, 17 October.