Orange rain alert for Istanbul’s Anatolian side, 100 kg per square meter possible

Türkiye’s meteorological service raised the warning level for many areas on Istanbul’s Anatolian side to orange, or “dangerous.” The governor’s office said 50 to 100 kilograms of rain per square meter is expected in eight districts and warned of flood and landslide risks.

The Turkish State Meteorological Service on Saturday raised the warning level for many areas on Istanbul’s Anatolian side to orange, its “dangerous” category. Rain expected to intensify after midday could be very heavy and severe in places, with up to 100 kilograms per square meter possible in some areas.

Eight districts at risk

The Istanbul Governor’s Office listed Beykoz, Şile, Ümraniye, Pendik, Tuzla, Sancaktepe, Çekmeköy and Sultanbeyli as the districts expected to be hit hardest, with 50 to 100 kilograms of rain per square meter forecast. The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality’s Disaster Coordination Center (AKOM) also warned of heavy rain in Beykoz, Sarıyer, Şile, Eyüpsultan and Arnavutköy.

Rain clouds over Istanbul

The governor’s office urged residents to be cautious against flooding, inundation, landslides, lightning, roof and tree damage and transport disruptions. Experts stress that soil saturated by recent rainfall has increased the risk of floods and landslides.

Storm expected in the evening

Strong winds and storms from the west and northwest are expected from 6 p.m. on Saturday, with speeds reaching 60 to 80 kilometers per hour around Beykoz and Şile. The storm warning remains in effect until 7 p.m. on Sunday. The rain is expected to ease after Sunday morning.

Besides Istanbul, orange warnings were issued for Bursa, Kocaeli, Sakarya and Yalova, and yellow warnings for 36 provinces including Ankara, İzmir, Adana and Antalya. Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change Minister Murat Kurum urged citizens to follow weather warnings and stay away from risky areas.

Wednesday’s rain broke an 84-year record

On Wednesday, rainfall reaching 278 kilograms per square meter broke Istanbul’s 84-year record, flooding homes and businesses and submerging hundreds of vehicles. Municipal teams evacuated 622 people who had been trapped. Interior Minister Mustafa Çiftçi said the danger has not yet passed.

Officials advise residents not to drive unless necessary and to stay away from stream beds and underpasses.

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