Lightning strikes Istanbul Financial Center during severe storm

A severe storm struck Istanbul during the night of Monday, November 2, 2026, and continued into the early hours of Tuesday, resulting in a lightning strike on the roof of a skyscraper within the Istanbul International Financial Center (IIFC) in the Ataşehir district. Reports indicate that the lightning hit the complex's lightning rod system, causing temporary smoke to appear. While social media sources also noted lightning strikes on the Çamlıca Tower during the same weather event, no official announcements have been issued regarding significant structural damage to the financial hub.

In addition to the strike at the financial center, the heavy rainfall triggered localized flooding, leading to traffic congestion and transport disruptions across various neighborhoods in the city. The Istanbul International Financial Center, which officially opened in April 2023, serves as a major economic facility housing the headquarters of state banks and various financial institutions. As of now, there are no reported casualties or major material losses following the incident. Authorities have not provided further updates, and the site remains operational as the city recovers from the extreme weather conditions.