Heavy rain causes havoc in Turkish capital

Authorities are warning residents in the Turkish capital to stay indoors after torrential rain and sleet flooded homes and underpasses and caused traffic havoc.

The Ankara mayor's office said the "exceptionally" heavy rain would last throughout Thursday and warned people to avoid driving on roads.

Television footage showed workers in diving suits trying to rescue a van loaded with gas canisters stuck in one underpass. The driver was not harmed.

Cars were seen sliding on one highway, where sleet had piled up some 10 centimeters (4 inches) thick.


/Hurriyet Daily News/