In northeastern Turkey, a bridge collapsed after heavy rains; in the south of the country — fires and evacuations

Northeastern provinces of Turkey were hit by torrential rains that caused mudflows and landslides. In Rize province, the Şenyamaç automobile bridge collapsed due to overflowing mountain rivers and eroded banks. According to local authorities, no casualties were reported. Traffic has been cut off, rescuers and road services are working on site, and damage assessments are being carried out for roads and houses affected by flooding.

Meteorologists had previously warned of heavy rainfall and the risk of landslides along the eastern Black Sea coast, including Rize, Giresun, and Artvin. According to regional services, between 75 and 160 millimeters of rainfall fell in some areas within a day, causing streams to overflow and soil to slide down slopes.

Meanwhile, the fight against forest fires continues in the south of the country. In Antalya, in the Aksu districts and the resort area of Kundu/Belek, the fire was intensified by gusty winds. As a precaution, authorities temporarily evacuated guests from several hotels. The fire was localized near tourist infrastructure, and there is no threat to human life. Fire crews continue extinguishing and monitoring the area.

In Alanya, a fire broke out in the Aliefendi area and spread to neighboring neighborhoods, prompting selective evacuations of residents. For safety reasons, electricity was temporarily cut off. No casualties were reported, and firefighting and forestry units are on site.

In Muğla province, eight fire outbreaks were recorded on the night of September 19–20. Six of them were quickly brought under control, but firefighting continued longer in the Köyceğiz and Milas areas. Local authorities reported the temporary evacuation of residents from more than a hundred houses and their placement in safe zones.

Meteorologists warn that new downpours are possible on Turkey’s Black Sea coast in the near future, while on the southern coast the risk of fires persists due to wind and dry weather. Authorities urge residents to take road closures in the northeast into account and follow the instructions of rescue services in southern resort areas.