Turkey now! All highways are closed in Istanbul! 50,000 people without electricity!

The flooding in Istanbul, Turkey’s largest city, caused widespread destruction and large-scale damage, highlighting the vulnerability of urban areas to extreme weather events. Torrential rains pounded the city, leading to flash floods that inundated streets, damaged homes and paralysed daily life. The downpour, which began early in the morning, was one of the heaviest the city had seen in recent years, overwhelming drainage systems and leaving large swathes of the city underwater. Residents of low-lying areas were particularly affected, many of whom found their homes submerged in floodwaters. Emergency services were quickly deployed to help those trapped in their homes or stranded on flooded roads. However, the scale of the flooding prevented rescue teams from reaching all areas quickly, leaving some residents stranded. Videos circulated on social media show cars floating on the streets, underpasses turning into rivers, and people wading through waist-deep water. The flooding also brought the city’s transport network to a standstill. Several major roads became impassable, and the metro system suffered serious disruptions, with some lines completely shut down due to flooded tracks. Many commuters were stranded, unable to get to their workplaces or return home. The city’s airports were also affected, with delays and cancellations due to the weather. In response to the natural disaster, Istanbul Mayor urged residents to stay at home and avoid unnecessary travel. He assured the public that the city was doing everything possible to cope with the situation and minimise further damage. Imamoglu also called for a review of the city’s infrastructure, stressing the need for long-term solutions to prevent the frequency of such events as the impact of climate change increases. The flooding in Istanbul is part of a wider pattern of extreme weather events that have been affecting Turkey in recent years. Scientists warn that such incidents are likely to become more common as the planet warms, and call on the authorities to invest in climate change resilience measures. In Istanbul, a city of more than 15 million people, the risks are particularly acute due to its dense population and extensive infrastructure. As the floodwaters begin to recede, the full extent of the damage becomes apparent. Many residents are now facing the daunting task of rebuilding their homes and businesses, and city officials are assessing the long-term impact on the city’s infrastructure. The disaster has also sparked debate about urban planning and the adequacy of Istanbul’s drainage systems, with many calling for immediate action to improve the city’s ability to cope with future flooding.