Turkiye: Adverse weather forecast across western regions through at least early March 6

Severe weather is forecast across much of western Turkiye through at least early March 6. Heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds are expected across the region from early March 5, with the most severe weather likely in coastal areas. Rainfall totals of 2-10 cm (0.8-3.9 inches) are possible in affected areas. Lightning, hail, and possible tornadoes may accompany storms. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes. Strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.

The Turkish State Meteorological Service has issued the following weather warnings March 5:

• Orange thunderstorm warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Antalya and Mugla provinces.

• Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Aydin, Balikesir, and Izmir provinces.

• Yellow strong wind warnings: Afyonkarahisar, Ankara, Antalya, Aydin, Burdur, Denizli, Eskisehir, Isparta, Izmir, Karaman, Konya, Kutahya, Manisa, Mugla, and Usak provinces.

Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional 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 the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

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. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations along the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, impacting freight and passenger maritime traffic.

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.