İstanbul Governor Muammer Güler has said the amount of rain that has fallen in İstanbul over the past few days is roughly equivalent to the amount of rain the city gets over six months.
“İstanbul has experienced a disaster it has not experienced over the past few years. We expect heavy rains to continue in the days ahead. Search-and-rescue efforts are occurring in a coordinated and effective manner. I advise people in İstanbul to be extra cautious and use main roads and the TEM Highway instead of narrow streets,” Güler noted.
The State Meteorology Bureau issued a statement cautioning people about heavy rainfall and flooding. Noting that there will still be rainfall in western and northern parts of the country, the bureau pointed out that people living near rivers or streams should take measures to protect themselves against the effects of flooding. These measures are listed as follows: “Climb to a higher place. Never drive into a flood. Do not forget that 80 percent of deaths occur inside cars during a deluge. Park your car in a safe place. Do not attempt to walk through flooded water or rivers and streams. Remember that flowing water 15-20 centimeters in depth may cause you to fall down. If you evacuate your house or workplace, turn off the electricity, natural gas and other utilities. Do not travel unless necessary.”
