Tropical storm likely to hit Turkey’s Aegean region

By Halil Sahin

IZMIR, Turkey

The tropical storm developing in the Mediterranean is likely to bring heavy rain and gusty winds to Turkey’s Aegean region.

According to Turkish Meteorology Regional Directorate, the tropical storm developing in the central Mediterranean is expected to move towards the east.

Current assessment shows that the storm will hit Izmir, Mugla, Aydin, Manisa, Balikesir and Canakkale provinces with 100-120 kilometers per hour.

While heavy rains are the major concern from the expected storm, the Turkish State Meteorological Service (TSMS) said heavy rainfall of 75 kilograms or more per square meters is expected.

Also, the Izmir municipality warned all units for Sunday over possible storm reaching the city. The municipality further assured citizens that 24-hour emergency teams will be available.

Recalling the heatwaves formed due to the climate changes, Hasan Cukur, head of Dokuz Eylul University’s Geography department, told Anadolu Agency that such storms which are usually seen in the Ecuador region will now be seen in a wider region.

“A tropical storm is possible this week. The more the temperature rises across the world, higher will be the chances of these storms in Turkey,” Cukur added.

Meanwhile, Mehmet Turkoz, district governor of Didim in Turkey’s Aegean province of Aydin, told Anadolu Agency that boats in Didim and Kusadasi districts are banned from sailing on Saturday and Sunday due to the possible storm.

“We have taken all necessary measures in coordination with all relevant institutions such as police, gendarmerie, coast guard and fire department,” Turkoz said.

“We hope that we will get through this weekend without any damage,” he added.

Turkish Meteorological General Directorate said the tropical storm is expected to cause flooding on the beaches and coastal strips as well as break-off traffic signs, and lamps.

The agency also warned on storm surge, disruptions on air, land and sea transportation as well as damage to the roofs plus falling of weak-rooted trees.