Heavy rainfall has triggered severe flooding across Istanbul, killing at least three people and leaving several others missing. Emergency crews have carried out rescue operations as floodwaters inundated streets, homes, businesses and underpasses across Türkiye’s largest city.
According to the Associated Press, more than 3,000 people were rescued from dangerous situations. Vehicles were stranded in floodwater, while traffic disruptions affected large parts of the city.
Heaviest rainfall in decades
Türkiye’s Environment Minister Murat Kurum described the rainfall as the heaviest in 83 years. Damage was also reported in the provinces of Sakarya and Kocaeli, where a two-storey house collapsed.
Among the victims was a 14-year-old who died from an electric shock after stepping into a puddle in a park. Another person died after falling on a flooded street. A third victim was found near a park in Istanbul’s Kağıthane district.
Reports differed on the number of people still missing. Search and rescue operations were continuing as authorities worked to establish the full extent of the disaster.
Authorities urge residents to take precautions
Officials advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel and stay away from flooded roads and underpasses. Schools were closed, special leave arrangements were introduced for some public-sector employees, and motorcycles were temporarily banned from traffic.
Further rainfall was forecast for Istanbul and surrounding areas, keeping emergency services on alert.
The flooding has highlighted the risks posed by extreme rainfall in densely populated urban areas. Low-lying roads, underpasses and buildings are particularly vulnerable when large volumes of water accumulate in a short period.
Authorities are continuing to assess the damage and search for missing people. The casualty figures may change as further information becomes available.
