Istanbul shut down by heaviest rainfall since 1985

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 15 Oct, 09:38 · Archive

Istanbul has been shut down by torrential rain, the heaviest since 1985, triggering flash floods and killing at least two people.

Torrential rain shut down much of Istanbul on Wednesday night and into Thursday, flooding homes, businesses, roads and underpasses. At least two people died, according to local media. A 14-year-old was electrocuted after stepping in a puddle at a park in the Fatih district, and a 34-year-old slipped on a sidewalk in the Sariyer district and hit their head. Rescuers worked overnight to save hundreds of people stranded at their workplaces, while bystanders helped countless others.

The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality said some areas had the highest amount of rain since 1985. The downpour swept cars through neighbourhoods, triggered landslides and brought traffic to a standstill. Heavy rain was still falling on Thursday morning.

Authorities suspended education for Thursday and placed some state employees on leave. The governor's office advised residents to stay home unless travel was absolutely necessary and for people living in basement apartments to spend the night elsewhere. Motorcycles were barred from traffic.

How it is being reported

• At least two killed after heavy rain and widespread flooding causes Istanbul shutdownThe Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality said some areas had the highest amount of rain since 1985.Euronews · 15 Oct, 08:46
• Istanbul in chaos, shut down by heaviest rainfall since 1985Torrential rain has triggered flash floods across Istanbul.Al Jazeera · 15 Oct, 02:29

In this story: Istanbul · Turkey · Fatih · Sariyer · Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality

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