09 Dec 2021 | 07:02 PM UTC
Turkey: Severe weather forecast across several western and southwestern provinces through at least Dec. 13
Severe weather forecast across parts of western Turkey through at least Dec. 13; disruptions to transport, business, and utilities possible.
Event
Severe thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and strong winds are forecast across much of western Turkey Dec. 10, with thunderstorms likely to continue in some western and southwestern areas of the country through at least Dec. 13. As of Dec. 9, the Turkish State Meteorological Service has issued the following weather warnings, effective Dec. 10:
Orange (i.e., second-highest level on a four-tier scale) thunderstorm warnings: Aydin, Izmir, and Mugla provinces.
Yellow (i.e., third-highest level on a four-tier scale) thunderstorm warnings: Aydin, Balikesir, Canakkale, and Manisa provinces.
Yellow wind warnings: across much of western Turkey.
Officials may update and extend the coverage of existing weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
The storms will likely produce rounds of heavy precipitation, strong winds, and thunderstorm activity across much of western Turkey over the coming days. Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Flooding is also possible in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services may occur where significant flooding, landslides, or strong winds impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beachfronts along coastlines if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of possible flood damage to facilities, potential evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Health
Flooding may heighten the threat of disease outbreaks. Backflow from drains mixed with floodwaters can become trapped in open areas when flooding recedes. These stagnant pools often become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and bacteria, increasing the incidence of insect- and waterborne diseases. Exposure to contaminated water from inundated industrial sites, sewer systems, and septic tanks poses a significant health threat.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated emergency and weather information. Seek updated information on weather and road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast. Confirm flights. Plan accordingly for potential delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through affected areas. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
