Tragedy struck Istanbul as heavy rainfall led to severe flooding in the Arnavutköy and Başakşehir districts, leaving two people dead, 12 injured, and a trail of destruction in its wake.

The Istanbul Governorship has released an official statement detailing the grim aftermath of the deluge.

According to the statement, the floods began on September 5, 2023, at around 21:00 local time following a torrential downpour. An astonishing 125 kilograms of rain per square meter inundated the affected areas, causing significant havoc. Two lives were tragically lost, with one casualty reported in the Başakşehir district and another in Küçükçekmece, while 12 individuals sustained injuries due to the flooding. Efforts to treat the injured are currently underway in local hospitals.

The Istanbul Governorship's statement revealed that a total of 1,754 homes and businesses bore the brunt of the flooding, with numerous public service organizations also partially affected. In response to the crisis, the emergency services swung into action. The 112 emergency call center received 1,150 flood-related notifications, while municipalities received an additional 2,540 reports of flooding.

Search and rescue teams from the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), the Fire Brigade, Istanbul Water and Sewerage Administration (ISKI), and municipal teams are working tirelessly to respond to these reports. Additionally, law enforcement and health units have mobilized their resources to support the ongoing relief efforts.

Thankfully, there are no citizens stranded in the affected areas. Those displaced by the floods will find shelter in public guesthouses and facilities, with the Red Crescent and municipal departments working diligently to meet their immediate needs. Medical services continue to be available at Başakşehir State Hospital and Çam and Sakura Hospital, despite being partially affected by the flood.

The victims of this tragic event have been identified as Yıldız Yurtseven, and Iraman Kebe, a Guinean national.

The five individuals injured in the flood are receiving medical attention at local hospitals.

As Istanbul grapples with the aftermath of this devastating flood, authorities and relief organizations are uniting their efforts to provide assistance and support to those affected by this natural disaster. (ILKHA)