Turkey: Tornado strikes airport in Antalya province January 26 /update 1

Event

A tornado was reported at Antalya Airport (AYT) in Antalya province on Saturday, January 26, injuring at least 12 people and causing damage to airport facilities and power transformers. Authorities indicate the tornado caused buses to flip over and resulted in damage to several airplanes. Further flight disruptions (including delays and cancelations) are possible at AYT in the coming hours.

Power outages were also reported on Saturday although officials state utility workers will restore service in the evening hours (local time). Further storms, including possible tornadoes, are forecast through Sunday, January 27. 

Advice

Travelers flying via AYT are advised to monitor local weather reports, expect lingering flight disruptions (including delays and cancelations), confirm flight reservations, and contact their airline for more information.

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports and obey all instructions issued by the local authorities. The safest place to be in a building in the event of a tornado is in the basement or on the ground floor, or in an interior hallway or stairwell. Avoid doors, windows, and walls. If a tornado is approaching, crouch face down as low as possible to the floor and cover your head with your hands, or a mattress if possible, to protect your head from falling debris.