Flood Hits Adana Following Heaviest Rainfall in 56 Years

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Some roads, streets and avenues have been flooded in Turkey's Mediterranean province of Adana as a result of torrential rains holding out in the city over the past two days.

While some irrigation canals have overflown and agricultural lands have been flooded, some neighborhoods in city center have been hit by floods.

According to the Directorate General of Meteorology, rainfall records have been kept in Adana since 1963 and the average precipitation measured in the province in December has been 121 kilograms.

Until yesterday (December 25), the heaviest rainfall had been measured in Adana on September 22, 2015, with 129 kilograms of rainfall per square meter. Yesterday, Adana received 147 kilograms of precipitation per square meter, which marks the highest rainfall in 56 years.

While the average annual precipitation is 648 kilograms in Adana, its central districts have received 249 kilograms of rainfall in the last two days.

Orange alert

Before the torrential rains hit the province, the Directorate General of Meteorology reportedly issued an "orange alert".

Effected by the rainfall, eight people have applied to hospitals. Receiving treatment at hospitals, they are reportedly in good health.

Crisis centers opened in the province

Speaking about the rainfall and ensuing floods, Adana Governor Mahmut Demirtaş has said, "This is the biggest disaster we have faced in recent years", adding that three crisis centers and commissions have been put together to take quick decisions during crises.

He has also indicated that damage to both housing and agriculture from the torrential rains is being assessed.

Support by the ministry

Minister of Family, Labor and Social Services Zehra Zümrüt Selçuk has shared a brief message about the incident on her Twitter account.

Extending her get well soon wishes to the people of Adana, the Minister has stated the following: "We, as the Ministry, have transferred funds to our Social Assistance and Solidarity Foundations so that the urgent needs of our citizens affected by the flood can be met." (TP/SD)