Intensifying rainfall in Istanbul has heightened concerns over potential flooding and transportation disruptions, according to the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality’s Disaster Coordination Center. The city is bracing for stronger rains around 11 a.m., following initial showers earlier in the day. Meteorologists warn that the adverse weather could persist until the afternoon, with conditions expected to improve by 4 p.m.
This surge in rainfall has been accompanied by a significant drop in temperatures, which plummeted to around 14°C and are expected to remain below seasonal averages throughout the day. The arrival of cooler air has combined with warm, moisture-laden air near the surface, creating conditions ripe for thunderstorms, lightning, and heavy showers.
Authorities have issued warnings for Istanbul and surrounding regions, including parts of the Marmara and western Black Sea areas, advising residents of possible sudden flooding, strong winds, and transport disruptions. The impact on daily life could be significant, with concerns over road conditions and public transport reliability.
Despite the current challenging weather, forecasts indicate that improvements are on the horizon. From Thursday, residents can expect a rise in temperatures to around 21°C and a cessation of significant rainfall. This change is likely to bring relief to the region, allowing for a return to more stable weather conditions.