On October 14, 2026, Istanbul’s Valiliği announced that all educational institutions in the city—both public and private—would be closed for one day on October 15, 2026. The decision was taken because of adverse weather conditions that officials said posed a risk to safety. The statement covered every school in the metropolis, leaving no distinction between state‑run and privately managed facilities.
Alongside the blanket closure, the Valiliği noted that certain categories of workers would receive particular consideration. Pregnant women and employees who have children under the age of eight were mentioned as groups for whom special allowances would be made.
The same announcement also introduced a traffic restriction that began at 21:00 on October 14, 2026. Motorcycles, scooters and similar two‑wheeled vehicles were banned from circulating in the city until further notice. The measure was presented as a precaution aimed at reducing the likelihood of accidents or difficulties on roads that could become hazardous under the prevailing weather conditions.
Motorcycles, scooters and similar two‑wheeled vehicles were banned from circulating in the city until further notice.
The Vali of Istanbul, Davut Gül, appeared publicly to reinforce the guidance. He urged citizens to remain at home unless their presence was absolutely necessary, and he highlighted specific safety concerns. In his statement, which was later rendered in English, he said: "From our citizens, I earnestly ask that, unless absolutely necessary, you do not leave your homes tomorrow. I especially remind those living in basement flats to spend the night safely on higher floors; to stay away from riverbeds, underpasses, and areas at risk of flooding."
Istanbul Municipality issued a parallel statement that echoed the Valiliği’s announcement. It confirmed the one‑day break for in‑person education activities, reiterated the allowances for certain employee groups, and restated the restriction on motorcycle traffic. Both the Valiliği and the municipality framed their actions as neutral, precautionary steps taken in response to the adverse weather.
As of the date of the announcement, the city’s schools are set to reopen after the single day of closure, the motorcycle ban remains in effect until authorities lift it, and the public continues to be advised to avoid unnecessary travel and to heed the safety tips concerning basement dwellings, riverbanks, underpasses and flood‑prone zones.