Powerful 6.2 magnitude earthquake shakes Turkey's Istanbul
As aftershocks continue to ripple through the region, the government has pledged full support to affected families and has begun preliminary assessments to determine long-term impacts.
A powerful 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck Türkiye’s largest city, Istanbul, early Wednesday morning, sending shockwaves through the metropolis of over 15 million people and triggering widespread panic.
According to the Kandilli Observatory and Earthquake Research Institute, the tremor occurred at approximately 4:38 a.m. local time, with its epicenter located near the town of Silivri, west of Istanbul along the Marmara Sea.
The quake struck at a depth of 12 kilometers (7.5 miles), making its impact felt strongly across the city and surrounding regions.
Residents were jolted from their sleep as buildings swayed, windows rattled, and car alarms blared in the pre-dawn darkness.
Many people rushed into the streets, fearful of aftershocks and potential building collapses.
So far, authorities have confirmed several injuries, mostly minor, as emergency services continue to assess the damage.
No fatalities have been reported as of this hour, but rescue teams have been deployed to inspect older structures and assist those trapped or displaced.
İstanbul Governor Davut Gül called for calm in a public statement, assuring residents that "emergency protocols are in full effect" and that "teams are working around the clock to ensure safety and assess structural risks."
Schools and public offices across Istanbul have been closed as a precaution.
Turkey's Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) has urged residents to avoid using elevators and to remain in open areas until buildings have been inspected.
Citizens have also been advised to prepare emergency kits and stay updated through official channels.
Turkey sits on several active fault lines and is highly prone to seismic activity.
The latest quake has renewed fears of a much-anticipated "big one" along the North Anatolian Fault, which scientists have long warned could strike Istanbul.
The 1999 Izmit earthquake, which measured 7.6 in magnitude, killed more than 17,000 people and caused massive devastation.
Today’s tremor, though less destructive, is a stark reminder of the region’s vulnerability and the ongoing need for preparedness.
As aftershocks continue to ripple through the region, the government has pledged full support to affected families and has begun preliminary assessments to determine long-term impacts.