A powerful earthquake rattled western Turkey today, according to the country’s emergency response agency. Media sources have reported structural damage to some buildings, but there have been no immediate reports of casualties.
The earthquake, measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale, originated in Sindirgi town in Balikesir province, as reported by the Disaster and Emergency Management agency (AFAD). The quake occurred at 10:48 PM local time at a depth of 5.99 kilometers.
Reports indicate that the tremors were felt in Istanbul, as well as in neighboring provinces such as Bursa, Manisa, and Izmir. Haberturk news channel highlighted instances of building damage in Sindirgi.
Notably, Sindirgi was previously hit by a similar magnitude 6.1 earthquake in August, resulting in one fatality and numerous injuries. Following this event, the Balikesir region experienced several smaller aftershocks.
Turkey is located on significant fault lines, making it prone to frequent seismic activity. In 2023, a devastating magnitude 7.8 earthquake claimed over 53,000 lives in Turkey, causing extensive destruction to buildings across 11 southern and southeastern provinces. Additionally, around 6,000 individuals lost their lives in northern Syria due to the same seismic event.