Turkiye: Adverse weather forecast across western and central regions through at least Nov. 22

Severe weather is forecast across parts of western and central Turkiye through at least Nov. 22. Strong winds are expected across the affected area and heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected across parts of the western Mediterranean, Marmara, and northern and coastal Aegean regions. Strong wind gusts, lightning, and possible hail may accompany storms. Rainfall totals of 2-10 cm (0.8-4 inches) are possible across parts of the affected area, with isolated heavier amounts in parts of eastern Antalya Province. Winds gusting up to 90 kph (56 mph) are possible across the region. Heavy rainfall may trigger flooding in low-lying areas and strong winds could cause property damage and power outages.

The Turkish State Meteorological Service has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area Nov. 21:

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

• Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Kutahya Province.

• Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Aydin, Balikesir, Bilecik, Burdur, Bursa, Canakkale, Edirne, Isparta, Istanbul, Izmir, Kirklareli, Kocaeli, Manisa, Mugla, Sakarya, Tekirdag, and Yalova provinces.

• Yellow strong wind warnings: Across much of the affected area.

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, landslides, or strong winds 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.