A strong earthquake measuring 6.2 struck Istanbul and several cities in northwestern Turkey at midday on Wednesday. Hundreds of people were injured as panic broke out. No fatalities have been reported so far. However, concerns are growing about a possible major earthquake in the region.
Epicenter in the Sea of Marmara – Tremors felt in multiple provinces
The quake occurred at 12:49 p.m. local time with its epicenter in the Sea of Marmara, about 40 kilometers southwest of Istanbul. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported the depth as just ten kilometers—shallow enough to make the tremors strongly felt at the surface.
In addition to Istanbul, the provinces of Tekirdağ, Yalova, Bursa, and Balıkesir were also affected. Even in the city of Izmir, more than 500 kilometers away, residents reported feeling the quake.
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya stated that the main tremor lasted about 13 seconds. More than 100 aftershocks followed, the strongest measuring 5.9 in magnitude.
Injuries mostly due to panic – Buildings evacuated
According to official reports, at least 236 people were injured—mainly due to panic reactions such as jumping from balconies or rushing out of buildings. No major structural damage or large-scale collapses have been reported.
Environment Minister Murat Kurum said that 378 cases of building damage were recorded. Twelve homes were evacuated as a precaution. In Istanbul’s historic Fatih district, an abandoned building collapsed.
Authorities continue to advise people not to enter damaged buildings. Mosques, sports halls, and other public facilities have been opened as emergency shelters.
Istanbul remains highly vulnerable – Major quake risk remains high
Earthquake experts have been warning for years about the possibility of a major quake in Istanbul. The megacity lies near the North Anatolian Fault—one of the world’s most active seismic zones. According to current studies, there is a 64 percent chance of a magnitude 7 or stronger quake by the year 2030.
That the quake occurred on Turkey’s National Sovereignty and Children’s Day may have prevented worse outcomes: many children were outdoors at the time of the earthquake.
Erdoğan: “Thank God it ended lightly”
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan spoke during a holiday address on Wednesday: “Thank God the situation is not worse. May God protect our people from further disasters.”
After the devastating earthquakes in February 2023, which killed over 53,000 people, the government launched nationwide earthquake safety construction projects. The focus is on strengthening vulnerable buildings and modernizing neighborhoods.
Government aims to expand earthquake protection
Urban planners and structural engineers emphasize the importance of long-term protective measures. In particular, many buildings in Istanbul must be modernized or rebuilt to withstand future quakes. Public education campaigns on how to behave during earthquakes are also to be intensified.
“We know it’s not just about reacting, but being prepared,” said a spokesperson for the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD). “Every life saved matters.”
Wednesday’s earthquake has once again highlighted Istanbul’s vulnerability. Even though the outcome was mild this time, the danger of a devastating major earthquake remains. Authorities are urging the public to stay alert and take preventative measures seriously.