Heavy Rain and Flooding in Istanbul Force School Closures as Roads Turn Into Rivers
Heavy rainfall triggered flooding across Istanbul on Wednesday, October 14, disrupting traffic, inundating homes and businesses, and prompting authorities to suspend in-person classes across the city for one day.
The Istanbul Governor’s Office announced that all public and private educational institutions would suspend face-to-face teaching on Thursday, October 15, as emergency measures were introduced to reduce risks from the severe weather. Officials also urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel.
Floodwater Disrupts Roads and Transport
The downpour flooded roads, underpasses and building basements in several parts of Istanbul, leaving vehicles stranded and causing major traffic congestion. Media reports showed cars being swept along by floodwaters and commuters facing difficulties as transport services came under pressure.
According to reporting by Daily Sabah, citing local municipal officials, nearly 100 kilograms of rainfall per square metre fell across the city during a 12-hour period from Tuesday night into Wednesday morning. Thousands of personnel and more than 2,000 vehicles were deployed to respond to weather-related incidents.
The flooding affected a city of around 16 million people, creating disruption for residents, businesses and commuters. Initial reports said there were no serious injuries, although rescue operations were needed in some locations.
Authorities Issue Safety Warnings
Istanbul Governor Davut Gül urged residents to remain at home on Thursday unless travel was essential. People living in basement apartments were advised to spend the night in safer, higher locations, while residents were warned to stay away from river channels, underpasses and areas vulnerable to flooding.
Authorities also temporarily prohibited motorcycles and other two-wheeled vehicles from using the roads, beginning Wednesday night and continuing until further notice.
Some public-sector employees, including people with disabilities, pregnant employees, veterans and women with children under eight, were granted administrative leave under the governor’s measures. Certain employees in essential services were excluded from parts of the leave arrangement.
Emergency Response Continues
Municipal teams were deployed to deal with flooding and transport disruption as officials monitored the continuing rainfall. Forecasts cited in local reporting warned that heavy precipitation could persist in parts of the city into Thursday morning.
The incident highlights Istanbul’s exposure to sudden urban flooding when intense rainfall overwhelms roads, drainage systems and underpasses. Residents were advised to follow official announcements and avoid flooded routes until conditions improved.
Source attribution: Associated Press, Anadolu Agency, Daily Sabah and the Istanbul Governor’s Office.