Following the heavy rains that affected Istanbul during the week, a new rainfall warning has been issued for the city. In an assessment shared on his social media account, Prof. Dr. Mikdat Kadıoğlu drew attention to the time frame between Saturday evening and Sunday midnight.
According to the forecasts shared by Kadıoğlu, Friday morning will be largely dry across the city. The rainfall is expected to begin in the northern and northwestern districts in the afternoon and increase in intensity during the evening hours.
On Saturday, the rainfall is expected to be effective across all of Istanbul. The forecasts indicate the strongest rainfall interval will be between Saturday evening and Sunday midnight. The rain is expected to cease during the day on Sunday.
RAINFALL AMOUNTS MAY APPROACH 50 KILOGRAMS IN SOME DISTRICTS
In the assessment based on three different ensemble forecast systems, Kadıoğlu also shared the total rainfall amounts covering Friday and Saturday by district. Accordingly, it is estimated that 30 to 50 kilograms of rain per square meter could fall in Sarıyer, Beykoz, and the northern parts of Eyüpsultan.
The forecasts highlight a rainfall range of 22-46 kilograms per square meter for Arnavutköy, 12-41 kilograms for Çatalca, and 24-36 kilograms for Şile. 16-25 kilograms of rain are expected in Fatih, Kadıköy, Üsküdar, Ümraniye, and Kartal; while 12-23 kilograms are expected in Bakırköy and Beylikdüzü.
In his warning, Kadıoğlu emphasized that one should look not only at the amount of rainfall but also at the current state of the ground. Stating that the soil is saturated following previous downpours and that streams and channels may still be full, Kadıoğlu pointed out that new rainfall could more easily turn into surface runoff.
20-30 kilograms of rain, which might not cause problems on dry ground, could pose a greater risk under current conditions.
WARNING AGAINST WIND AND FLOOD RISK
It was stated that wind could also be effective on Saturday. A warning was issued that in northern and western districts such as Sarıyer, Arnavutköy, Çatalca, and Beylikdüzü, the wind could reach gusts blowing at 50-65 kilometers per hour.
Reminding that trees can be uprooted more easily on wet ground, Kadıoğlu stated that vehicles should not be parked under trees, poles, or scaffolding. Citizens were also urged not to stand near these areas.
Issuing warnings against floods and water inundation, Kadıoğlu emphasized that one should not enter puddles or flowing water. It was noted that there could be open manholes, collapsed roads, or electrical hazards beneath murky water.
Kadıoğlu suggested using Friday to prepare for potential negative impacts. Recommendations included cleaning street drains of leaves and mud, moving items in basements to higher points, and having building electrical panels checked.
It was stated that those planning events near streams or in open areas should prepare an indoor alternative for Saturday. It is requested that the warnings be followed closely, especially in regions previously affected by rainfall.
News Source: 12punto
