27 Jun 2022 | 02:41 AM UTC
Turkey: Heavy rainfall and possible flooding forecast across northern regions through at least June 28
Heavy rainfall and possible flooding forecast across northern Turkey through at least June 28. Disruptions possible.
Event
Rounds of heavy rainfall are forecast to occur in northern Turkey through at least June 28. As of early June 27, the Turkish State Meteorological Service has issued the following weather warnings across the affected areas:
Red thunderstorm warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Bartin, Duzce, Karabuk, Kastamonu, Sinop, and Zonguldak provinces.
Orange thunderstorm warnings: Amasya, Bolu, Cankiri, Corum, Kirikkale, Sakarya, Samsun, Tokat, and Yozgat provinces.
Yellow thunderstorm warnings: the rest of the affected area.
Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the 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. Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity, water supply, and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides 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 airports in the region, including but not limited to Ankara Esenboga Airport (ESB), Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW), and Istanbul Ataturk Airport (ISL). Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts 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 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, or some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding is possible. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
