26 Jan 2023 | 01:21 PM UTC
Turkey: Adverse weather forecast across western regions through at least Jan. 28
Severe weather forecast across parts of western Turkey through Jan. 28. Flooding and associated disruptions possible.
Event
Thunderstorms are forecast across parts of western Turkey through at least Jan. 28 as a storm system is expected to move in from the Aegean Sea Jan. 27. Storms may be accompanied by heavy downpours, strong wind gusts, lightning, and possible hail. Rainfall totals of up to 10 cm (4 inches) are possible across the affected area, with isolated heavier totals; snowfall and sleet are possible in mountainous parts of the region. Heavy rainfall may trigger flooding in low-lying areas and strong winds could cause property damage and power outages.
As Jan. 26, the Turkish State Meteorological Service has issued the following weather warnings for Jan. 27:
Orange thunderstorm warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Aydin, Balikesir, Izmir, Manisa, and Mugla provinces.
Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Canakkale, Denizli, and Usak provinces.
Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change 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. 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 rainfall 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.
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 affected regions. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts along the Aegean coast 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 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.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business arrangements before traveling in the affected area. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast; plan for possible supply chain disruptions throughout the affected areas. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
