Two people have died following heavy rainfall on October 14 in Istanbul, Turkey’s largest city. Flooding has closed roads, inundated residential homes and disrupted air traffic, while schools have been closed in Istanbul and five other provinces. Residents have been urged to stay indoors.
Severe weather continued on Thursday. Rescue teams are clearing flooded roads, dealing with the aftermath of landslides and helping people stranded by rising waters.
According to Istanbul Municipality, rainfall in the Beykoz district reached 242 millimeters, one of the highest levels recorded in the city since 1985.
One of the deaths occurred in the historic Fatih district. M.I., 14, was electrocuted after stepping into a puddle at Çukur Bostan Park in the Balat neighborhood. The teenager was taken to hospital unconscious, but doctors were unable to save his life. An investigation has been launched into the incident, but the source of the electric current has not yet been officially determined.
The second victim was S.Y., 34, who attempted to cross a flooded road in the Sarıyer district, lost his balance and hit his head on the curb. He later died in hospital.
Flooding damaged residential neighborhoods in Esenyurt, Beykoz, Küçükçekmece and Sarıyer, where water covered streets and trapped vehicles. The Kağıthane stream overflowed its banks, flooding the historic Sadabad Mosque and the surrounding area.
Strong winds and heavy rain disrupted operations at Istanbul’s two major airports. According to the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, 43 aircraft were diverted to alternative airports, including 39 to other airports in Turkey and four abroad. Sabiha Gökçen Airport also experienced temporary disruptions. Flooding damaged metro stations, underpasses and major highways.
The incident illustrates how quickly heavy rainfall can disrupt daily life in a major city when floodwaters simultaneously threaten residential neighborhoods, roads and transport hubs. The impact in Istanbul has extended beyond flooded streets: classes have been suspended, flights have been diverted, and rescue teams have had to operate across several districts.
The death of the 14-year-old deserves particular attention, as the source of the electric current has not yet been officially established. The findings of the investigation may clarify the circumstances that led to the danger. Meanwhile, it is important to monitor warnings about further rainfall in the coming hours, as authorities have already cautioned that the rain could spread to additional areas.
