18 Aug 2019 | 04:31 AM UTC
Turkey: Severe weather warnings issued for Ankara and other areas August 18 /update 1
Turkish authorities issue severe weather warnings for several areas on August 18; heavy rain, flashflooding, strong winds, and transportation disruptions expected
Event
The Turkish Meteorological Service issued on Sunday, August 18, weather warnings for the Kırıkkale and Karabük provinces, and the cities of Kastamonu, Sinop, Ankara, Çorum, and Giresun. It forecasts thunderstorms, heavy rain and strong winds, as well as flash flooding, lightning, and even hail in these areas in the coming hours and days. Flash flooding left at least one person dead in Fatih district in Istanbul on Saturday, August 17, and caused significant transportation disruptions. Floodwaters reportedly disrupted road travel in the districts of Beşiktaş, Eminönü, Kabataş, Kadıköy, Karaköy, and Üsküdar. Officials also suspended Istanbul Sea Buses (IDO) and Bursa Sea Buses (BUDO) services as well as the T1 Kabataş-Bağcılar tram line.
Consequent transportation and business disruptions are to be expected in the city over the coming hours and days.
Advice
Individuals in Istanbul are advised to monitor local weather reports, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders), and confirm road conditions before setting out. It is important to note that walking or driving through floodwaters can be dangerous; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.
