Turkey: Severe weather forecast through at least Dec. 9 across western and central Turkey

Event

Severe weather, including thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, strong winds, landslides, and flooding, is forecast across western and central Turkey through at least Dec. 9. As of early Dec. 7, the Turkish State Meteorological Service has issued orange (second-highest level on a four-tier scale) thunderstorm warnings across Antalya, Aydin, Balikesir, Burdur, Isparta, Izmir, and Mugla provinces. Yellow thunderstorm and strong wind warnings are in place across the rest of the affected area.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Further urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from 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 the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. 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 beach fronts 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 flood damage to facilities, possible 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 inundations recede. 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 also 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 the affected area. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

Turkish State Meteorological Service