Antalya Province Struck by Devastating Tornado Outbreak and Flooding in January 2019

Severe Weather Batters Antalya Province

Antalya Province in southern Turkey experienced a severe weather outbreak between January 24 and 26, 2019, characterized by multiple tornadoes, heavy rainfall, severe wind gusts, and large hail. This series of extreme weather events led to significant destruction across the region, exacerbating existing flooding conditions.

Extensive Damage to Agriculture and Infrastructure

The tornadoes inflicted considerable damage, particularly to the agricultural sector. Over 202 hectares of greenhouses were severely impacted, with plastic and glass structures shattered and roofs ripped off. Beyond agriculture, the storms damaged 229 buildings and at least 140 transformer stations, leading to widespread power outages and infrastructural disruption. Districts such as Kumluca, Finike, Demre, and Manavgat reported extensive losses, including uprooted trees and damaged homes.

Antalya Airport Hit, Fatalities Reported

One of the most significant impacts occurred on January 26, 2019, when a strong tornado, rated F2, struck Antalya Airport. The twister caused substantial damage, overturning two buses and damaging two airplanes and a police helicopter. This incident alone resulted in 11 injuries among passengers and airport employees. Across the province, the severe weather outbreak tragically claimed at least three lives, including a 13-year-old girl and a 20-year-old woman, and left numerous others injured.

Context of Flooding and Unusual Timing

The tornado outbreak compounded the challenges posed by recent flash flooding in the area, which had already claimed two lives on January 25. While tornadoes are less common in Europe during winter, research indicates that January is a month with peak tornado activity in this specific part of Turkey, attributed to a combination of warm sea temperatures and strong atmospheric conditions. Following the events, authorities, including Governor Münir Karaloğlu, issued warnings about the continued risk of severe weather and initiated damage assessment and recovery efforts.