Torrential rain has brought flooding to Istanbul in Turkey and many have had to swim to safety.
Two hours of lightning hit the city before the onset of heavy rain which caused most of the flooding, according to Reuters. Many roads and public transport systems were affected.
CNN Turk reported that there were more than 6,700 lightning bolts in Istanbul. It also said that the Istanbul municipality has recorded 6.5cm of rainfall this morning (July 18).
Some who were caught up in the floods and were unable to swim to safety were rescued by boats.
Meanwhile routes usually taken by international shipping traffic carrying oil and grain were also suspended for many hours though the Bosphorus Strait.
Istanbul Governor Vasip Sahin has warned residents not to use their cars unless it is absolutely necessary and has said there is likely to be more rain this afternoon (July 18).
Take a look at photos of the floods in the gallery above
Comments