Istanbul storm death toll climbs to five after weekend flooding

A severe storm system battered the Istanbul region late Saturday, bringing torrential rains and widespread flooding to Pendik and the adjacent city of Kocaeli. The weather event has claimed at least five lives, with reports indicating the death toll may still rise as emergency services work through affected areas.

Floodwaters inundated streets and neighbourhoods across both districts, causing significant disruption to residents and infrastructure. The rapid onset of the storm left many communities struggling to cope with the sudden surge of water and debris.

Emergency response teams have been deployed to conduct search and rescue operations, with authorities prioritising assistance to the most severely affected areas. Local officials have urged residents to remain cautious as water levels recede and to report any missing persons to authorities.

This latest weather event adds to growing concerns about extreme weather patterns affecting the wider region. Turkish meteorological authorities have cautioned residents to prepare for potentially unstable atmospheric conditions in coming days.