Turkiye: Adverse weather forecast across eastern parts of the Black Sea Region through at least Sept. 17

Severe weather is forecast across parts of northeastern Turkiye through at least Sept. 17. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected across eastern parts of the Black Sea Region; strong wind gusts, lightning, and possible hail may accompany storms. Rainfall totals of 2-5 cm (0.8-2 inches) are expected across the region, with localized higher amounts of 5-10 cm (2-4 inches) possible across northern Artvin and northern Rize provinces. The Turkish State Meteorological Service has issued orange thunderstorm warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale) across Artvin and Rize provinces and yellow thunderstorm warnings across Trabzon Province Sept. 16-17. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming hours and days.

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 rain has saturated the soil.

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. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with 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.