The DHA news agency said people stranded in homes due to flooding in the district of Silivri — one of the worst-hit areas — were also helped out in boats, the Associated Press reported.
The Eurasia Tunnel, connecting Istanbul's Asian and European sides under the Bosporus strait, was temporarily closed to traffic.
According to forecasters there may be no let-up in the rain, with Istanbul expected to see more downfalls in the afternoon, continuing until evening, together with strong wind.
Heavy rainfall causes floods in Istanbul
18 July 2017
Read: 2099
Heavy rainfall has caused floods in Istanbul, inundating roads, underpasses and subway lines and causing havoc in the city.
