Floods and traffic and air travel disruptions in Istanbul after unprecedented rainfall since 1942
Agencies2 min read
Share
The Turkish city of Istanbul witnessed heavy rainfall that recorded the highest precipitation rate since 1942, leading to floods and disruptions in road and air traffic, and resulting in the death of two people and the injury of three others, according to what the city's governor, Davut Gül, announced on Thursday.
Gül said, during a press conference at the headquarters of the Turkish Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), that the amount of rainfall reached 261 kilograms per square meter, explaining that the injured were taken to the hospital, and that their condition is good and there is no danger to their lives.
He added that rescue teams evacuated 2,722 people using boats and various vehicles, while limited rescue operations continued at 14 locations in the city.
The weather conditions led to the diversion of 51 flights from Istanbul Airport to alternative airports, and the cancellation of 19 flights, including seven incoming flights and 12 departing flights.
As a precautionary measure, the Istanbul Governorate announced the suspension of public and private schools on Friday, in the interest of the safety of students, teachers, and parents, noting that school buildings will undergo inspection over the coming days to ensure the safety of electrical systems and that they have not sustained damage.
