Residents of Türkiye's Istanbul city have been urged to stay at home unless necessary as prolonged heavy rainfall threatens the city with flooding and landslides.

Rainfall is expected to intensify further on the morning of October 16, particularly in the northern and European parts of the city, TRT Haber reports.

Amid forecasts of torrential rain and the risk of landslides, Istanbul Governor Davut Gül strongly advised residents to avoid unnecessary trips and refrain from travelling by car.

Schools across Istanbul have been closed, while public sector employees have been granted an official day off.

Gül also warned residents to stay away from areas vulnerable to flooding and avoid dangerous locations during the downpours.

“Do not stay in basements or places where there is a risk of flooding, keep away from standing water, riverbeds and flooded underpasses,” Gül said.

Police are urging residents to take precautions as the adverse weather continues, particularly in areas vulnerable to flash floods and landslides.