20 Jan 2022 | 01:36 PM UTC
Turkey: Severe weather forecast across some western provinces through at least Jan. 22
Heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds forecast across parts of western Turkey through at least Jan. 22. Disruptions possible.
Event
Severe weather, including thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and strong winds, is forecast across parts of western Turkey through at least Jan. 22. As of Jan. 20, the Turkish State Meteorological Service has issued orange (second-highest level on a four-tier scale) heavy rainfall warnings for Aydin and Izmir provinces Jan. 21-22. The service has warned that thunderstorms will accompany the showers and the worst-affected areas are likely to be southern Izmir and coastal areas of Aydin. Flooding, lightning, strong winds, and disruption to transport are possible across the affected region. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. 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 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. If strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts along coastlines. 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.
