Downpours, strong winds paralyze life

ISTANBUL

Storms and torrential rains have paralyzed daily life in many parts of the country, including Istanbul and the capital Ankara.

While the downpour that has been effective in Istanbul since the morning hours of May 17 increased the traffic density in the city, many accidents occurred on the roads that became slippery due to the rain.

According to the latest assessments, thundershowers are expected in most parts of Istanbul. Along with the precipitation, a 2 to 3 degrees Celsius drop in air temperatures is also expected.

It was stated by the officials that a pile-up accident involving 12 vehicles occurred on Maltepe D-100 Highway that became slippery due to rain. A total of three people were injured in the accident.

In the Sarıyer district, a bus driver who lost control of the steering wheel on a slippery road hit another car. Since the bus was empty, there were no casualties.

In Ümraniye, a passenger minibus could not take the bend on the overpass and flew down from a height of about five meters. The driver and his assistant in the minibus, which had no passengers inside, were injured. It was reported that one of the injured was in critical condition.

Meanwhile, the wind and rainfall that took effect in Ankara had a negative impact on daily life as well. Many trees toppled and roofs blew off due to the wind blowing at a speed of 45 kilometers per hour. Citizens in the vicinity of a mall in the Etimesgut district experienced great fear as the mall’s roof completely blew off.

The minaret of the central mosque in the district also collapsed due to the storm. One person was injured when he was hit by some broken pieces of the minaret. Many vehicles hit by broken pieces of roofs were also damaged.

Ankara Governor’s Office warned against possible adverse conditions due to rain and wind. It was stated that local and strong downpours and thunderstorms are expected in Nallıhan, Beypazarı, Güdül, Kızılcahamam, Çamlıdere, Çubuk and Kalecik districts, and people were warned to exercise caution against sudden floods.