3 dead as Istanbul endures heaviest rainfall in 80 years

By the Editorial Team · Friday, October 16, 2026

Istanbul experienced its heaviest recorded rainfall since 1942, causing widespread flash flooding, multiple fatalities, and major disruptions including school closures and flight delays. Authorities are now focused on recovery efforts and have warned residents to avoid flood-prone areas as the city deals with the aftermath of the historic storm.

Istanbul is recovering from severe flooding caused by what officials have described as the heaviest rainfall the city has experienced since records began more than 80 years ago. The intense downpour started on Wednesday morning and continued throughout the day, leading to widespread flash floods and significant disruption in Turkey’s largest city.

Istanbul governor Davut Gul confirmed that the precipitation levels were unprecedented since record-keeping began in 1942. The heavy rains produced dangerous conditions, with footage showing vehicles being swept away by rapidly flowing waters in various districts, including the northern Sariyer area. In one instance, individuals were seen being rescued from floodwaters through a first-floor window, while others were carried to safety by a large mechanical digger.

The floods resulted in fatalities, with reports varying between two and three deaths. Among the victims was a 14-year-old boy in the Balat neighborhood who was electrocuted after stepping into a puddle. He was transported to a hospital but later died. Several other individuals have been hospitalized with injuries related to the flooding.

In response to the emergency, schools across Istanbul were ordered closed through Monday, and residents were advised to remain indoors except for essential activities. Those living in basement or low-lying properties were urged to move to higher floors overnight. Authorities also warned the public to avoid areas prone to flooding, such as stream beds and underpasses.

The severe weather also impacted air travel, with the transport ministry reporting that 43 flights to Istanbul Airport and three to Sabiha Gokcen Airport on the Asian side were diverted or delayed due to heavy rain and strong winds. Sabiha Gokcen temporarily suspended take-offs amid the adverse conditions.

Local officials continue to monitor the situation as clean-up and recovery operations get underway, highlighting the ongoing challenges posed by the extraordinary rainfall in a city that has not experienced such an event in over eight decades.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.