Two people have died in Istanbul following severe flooding caused by what the city's governor has stated is the heaviest rainfall in 84 years. A 14-year-old boy died from electrocution after stepping into a puddle, and a 34-year-old man died after slipping and hitting his head while attempting to cross a road.
Nearly 600 individuals have been rescued after becoming stranded, with cars submerged in water in some districts. Istanbul Governor Davut Gül has advised residents to avoid leaving their homes unless absolutely necessary. The city's deputy mayor, Nuri Aslan, urged citizens to remain vigilant against expected heavy rain and storms, particularly during nighttime hours, and recommended using public transport.
The flooding has also affected air travel, with 46 planes unable to land at Istanbul airports. Some areas of the city have experienced rainfall equivalent to one seventh of the annual average. Schools were ordered to close on Thursday and Friday as rain is forecast to continue.