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Istanbul Endures Heaviest Rainfall Since 1942, Triggering Widespread Flooding

Overwhelmed drainage and power systems have forced large-scale rescues, keeping official warnings in effect through the weekend.

Overview

  • Heavy rains that began late on 14 October produced record totals on 15 October, with officials reporting localized totals up to 272 kilograms per square meter.
  • At least three people have died and several others remain missing as emergency teams carry out ongoing search-and-rescue operations.
  • Authorities mobilized tens of thousands of responders and evacuated roughly 2,700 people, using boats to reach residents trapped by floodwaters.
  • Flooding has caused collapsed retaining walls, temporary power and water outages, school closures, and the diversion or cancellation of numerous flights into Istanbul.
  • Health and safety warnings now cover risks to drinking water from damaged pipes, continued heavy rain through the weekend, and travel advisories urging people to avoid low-lying areas and follow official instructions.