Turkiye: Adverse weather forecast across western regions through at least Dec. 21

Severe weather is forecast across much of western Turkiye through at least Dec. 21. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are likely across the region; strong wind gusts, lightning, localized hail, and possible tornadoes may accompany storms. Rainfall totals of 2-10 cm (0.8-3.9 inches) are forecast across the affected area Dec. 21. 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 Dec. 21:

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

• Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Afyonkarahisar, Burdur, Konya, Kutahya, and Usak provinces.

• Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Balikesir, Canakkale, Denizli, Edirne, Kirklareli, Manisa, and Tekirdag provinces.

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 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.