Heavy rain that began on 28 December has caused severe flooding in the province of Mersin, southern Turkey.
One of the worst hit areas was the coastal city of Mersin. A severe weather warning was issued and local authorities urged local residents to stay inside and to avoid driving.
The Mersin branch of Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) said that many roads had to be closed and people were left trapped in their vehicles as roads and streets turned to rivers. Schools have been closed in seven districts of the province.
In a statement of 29 December, the government of Mersin said that two people have died as a result of the flooding.
The government also reported that 155.8 mm of rain fell in 24 hours between 28 and 29 December, with over 140 mm falling in just 10 hours.
Severe weather, including strong winds and heavy snowfall, is also affecting other parts of the country. Some flights and ferry services have been cancelled.
Photos of the floods in Mersin, courtesy of AFAD / Government of Mersin.
Social Media
Life in the Turkish city Mersin was brought to a standstill after torrential downpours caused major flash flooding. https://t.co/faA1dcrFlC pic.twitter.com/qxB9h7PRBf
— ABC News (@ABC) December 30, 2016
Couple goals in Mersin pic.twitter.com/4YLe9H50Lm
— Halil (@halilbaink_) December 29, 2016
