Istanbul drowning: Two dead in floods in Turkey | Footage of the massive flooding

Heavy rains in Istanbul caused widespread flooding, at least two dead, hundreds of rescues, and school closures. Authorities reported 1,277 floods and 15 landslides, with exceptional rainfall amounts.

Heavy rains that fell in Istanbul over the past day caused widespread flooding in Turkey's largest city. At least two people were killed: a 14-year-old boy who was electrocuted after stepping on a puddle in a park in the Fatih district, and a 34-year-old man who hit his head after slipping while trying to cross a flooded street. Main streets and roads were flooded, vehicles were swept away by currents, and hundreds of people were trapped in their homes and workplaces. According to data from the authorities, 1,277 floods and 15 landslides were reported. In the Beykoz district, about 256 millimeters of rain were measured, and parts of the city recorded the highest rainfall amounts since 1985. Rescue forces operated throughout the night to evacuate hundreds of people, including Turkish singer Murat Boz and actress Demet Özdemir, who were trapped in flooded film studios. Authorities announced school closures and granted leave to certain public workers. Residents were called upon to avoid leaving their homes unnecessarily, and motorcycle traffic was banned on roads. Authorities warned of additional rains and the continued danger of flooding.