Travellers and residents in Türkiye's eastern Black Sea region should keep plans flexible until 15:00 on Saturday, 19 September. MGM warning No. 464 forecasts very heavy to locally severe rain for the Rize coast and northern Artvin, while Giresun, Trabzon, Rize and Artvin are covered by the wider heavy-rain area. The official risk list includes flooding, flash floods, landslides, lightning, strong gusts during rain and transport disruption. The bulletin is a weather warning, not a blanket cancellation of flights, buses or roads.
Where the highest totals are expected
MGM expects 21–60 kg/m² across Giresun, Trabzon, Rize and Artvin, with 51–100 kg/m² possible on the Rize coast and in northern Artvin on Saturday. The higher range is classified as very heavy to severe rain. Mountain terrain can concentrate runoff, so conditions may differ sharply between neighbouring districts.
The warning ends at 15:00, not at noon
The official validity window runs from 20:00 on 18 September to 15:00 on 19 September. Travellers should not treat a temporary lull as the end of the warning. Check the latest MGM, governorate and municipal information immediately before leaving, especially for a mountain road, airport transfer or same-day tour.
Airport and intercity journeys
The MGM notice does not order a general closure of Trabzon Airport, Rize–Artvin Airport or the coastal highway. Passengers should verify their exact flight with the airline and airport, and drivers should confirm the live route with the responsible authority. Allow extra time for access roads and do not enter standing or moving floodwater.
Landslide risk changes a Black Sea itinerary
Rainfall on steep slopes can affect a road after the strongest shower has moved on. Avoid stream beds, low bridges and exposed hillside stops; postpone highland or waterfall excursions if local authorities or the operator advise against travel. A tour being advertised online is not proof that every road on its route remains open.
What residents and guests can do now
Move vehicles away from underpasses, river edges and known flood points, secure loose balcony items and keep documents and electronics above ground level. Save the accommodation, airline or rental-car contact details offline. Use 112 only for an actual emergency and follow AFAD and local authorities for incident-specific instructions.
Turkey Compass fact check
Confirmed: MGM warning No. 464 remains valid until 15:00 on 19 September and includes possible 51–100 kg/m² rain on the Rize coast and in northern Artvin. Not stated in the warning: a blanket closure of airports or roads, cancellation of all services, or identical rainfall in every district.