On October 14, 2026, heavy rainfall began across Istanbul. The downpour was described by officials as the highest amount recorded since the Meteorology General Directorate started measurements in 1942, with 261 kilograms of water falling on each square metre of the city. This figure marked a new benchmark for precipitation in Istanbul’s modern history.
As the rain intensified, the Istanbul Vali announced a one-day break from face-to-face classes for all schools in the city. At the same time, a ban on two-wheeled vehicles took effect from 9 p.m. on October 14, aiming to reduce the risk of accidents on slick roads. Traffic disruptions quickly followed, and travel advisories were issued urging residents to limit unnecessary movement.
To cope with the unfolding situation, authorities deployed 8,000 personnel, 2,000 vehicles and various pieces of machinery. Throughout the period of heavy rain, the city’s emergency centres logged 2,518 alerts. These included 1,277 flood-related notifications, 15 reports of landslides and 47 instances of road blockages. The scale of the response reflected the breadth of the impact.
The rainfall had caused flooding in numerous neighbourhoods, leading to 16 roads being closed or restricted due to water accumulation and debris.
By October 15, the Vali confirmed that the floods had claimed the lives of two citizens and left three others injured. Rescue operations were underway in 14 different areas of the city, where teams worked to reach those trapped by rising water.
The rainfall had caused flooding in numerous neighbourhoods, leading to 16 roads being closed or restricted due to water accumulation and debris. Schools in the city remained closed on October 15, and the ban on two-wheeled vehicles was expected to continue until conditions improved. Authorities urged citizens to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary.
During a press conference, Davut Gül, the Istanbul Vali, shared the latest figures on the flood situation. He reiterated that the city had experienced its highest rainfall since 1942, quantified as 261 kilogrammes per square metre. He also confirmed the casualty toll: two deaths and three injuries. His remarks included a message of sympathy: “May God have mercy on the two citizens who lost their lives, and I send my condolences to their families.”
As of the latest updates, rescue teams continue to work in the 14 identified zones, crews are clearing the 16 blocked roads, and meteorologists monitor the lingering rain system. Schools remain closed, travel restrictions persist, and the city’s emergency services remain on high alert while awaiting a break in the weather.