Heavy Rain and Flooding Kill at Least Two in Istanbul
A heavy downpour from Wednesday night into Thursday flooded Istanbul, Turkey's largest city, and killed at least two people. Rescuers worked through the night to help hundreds of people stranded at their workplaces.
Istanbul, Turkey's largest city, has been hit by a heavy downpour that began on Wednesday night and continued into Thursday, 15 October, causing widespread flooding and largely shutting down daily life. Homes, businesses, roads and underpasses were inundated, leaving vehicles stranded and traffic in disarray. Local media reported at least two deaths.
Casualties and rescue efforts
According to local media, a 14-year-old was electrocuted after stepping into a puddle in a park in the Fatih district. In the Sariyer district, a 34-year-old slipped on a sidewalk and hit their head.
Rescuers worked overnight to help hundreds of people who were stranded at their workplaces. Bystanders also assisted many others.
Response by the authorities
Heavy rain was still falling on Thursday morning. The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality said some areas had received the highest amount of rain since 1985.
The governor's office said education would be suspended on Thursday and some state employees would be given leave. It urged residents to stay home unless travel was absolutely necessary, and advised people living in basement apartments to spend the night elsewhere. Motorcycles were also barred from traffic.
