Heavy rains trigger floods and landslides across Rize, Artvin and nearby coastal towns

Authorities in the northeastern provinces of Rize and Artvin warned residents to stay alert as heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected to persist from Sept 20, according to the Turkish State Meteorological Service. On Sept 19, parts of Rize recorded more than 150 kilograms of rain per square meter, with some spots reaching 186 kilograms, and officials said totals could climb to 200-250 kilograms in certain areas. The downpour caused rivers to burst their banks in İyidere and Pazar, flooding homes, businesses and submerging numerous vehicles, while landslides blocked drainage channels and sent muddy water into urban zones.

Seven houses were evacuated in İyidere, and nine neighborhoods plus seven villages reported damage. Emergency and municipal teams are working to clear debris, drain water and restore traffic, though the Black Sea Coastal Highway remains heavily jammed. In nearby Trabzon, 50 kilograms of rain per square meter led to street flooding, property damage and the collapse of a retaining wall in Yalıncak, prompting the evacuation of residents from two apartment blocks. Hundreds of responders have been deployed to handle 144 emergency calls, and damage assessments continue.