Magnitude 6.2 earthquake shakes Turkiye’s Istanbul

A strong earthquake measuring 6.2 struck the Marmara Sea near Istanbul’s Silvri area at 12:49 local time (09:49 GMT) on Wednesday, according to Turkiye’s Disaster and Emergency Authority (AFAD).

The quake occurred at a depth of 10 km and was felt across several provinces, including Izmir, 550 km south of Istanbul. It was followed by eight aftershocks ranging from magnitude 3.5 to 5.9.

Buildings shook across Istanbul, prompting residents to evacuate and gather on streets. Authorities reported no building collapses but noted some structural damage. One injury was reported from a person who jumped off a balcony during the quake. Transport infrastructure inspections revealed no damage.

Turkey’s Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed emergency assessments are underway and urged people to avoid damaged buildings. The tremors were also felt as far as Bulgaria. President Tayyip Erdogan is monitoring the situation and issued safety advice. Turkey, prone to earthquakes, continues urban reconstruction efforts to strengthen buildings near fault lines following devastating quakes in 2023.