Severe storm paralyzes the Marmara region

Adverse weather conditions gripping the Marmara region continue to make maritime transportation difficult. Strong winds and a storm have disrupted services on the Eskihisar-Topçular ferry line, which is the most heavily used route between the Gebze district of Kocaeli and Yalova.

THE INTENSITY OF THE STORM CAPTURED ON CAMERA

Footage shared on social media revealed the power of the storm. In images taken from a passenger ferry, a car ferry coming from the opposite direction was seen struggling to navigate through the waves, appearing to sway significantly. At times, the waves battered the ferry's deck.

While great efforts are being made to continue services despite the storm, passengers experienced moments of fear inside the ferry.

WARNING FROM THE METEOROLOGICAL SERVICE

The General Directorate of Meteorology (MGM) issued a warning that the speed of the wind blowing from the north and northwest in the Sea of Marmara could occasionally exceed 60 kilometers per hour. It was noted that there is an expectation of "near-gale" winds and, in some places, strong storms across the region. Wave heights in the open sea were forecast to reach up to 2.5 meters.