A massive earthquake has caused buildings to collapse and forced people to evacuate onto the streets in Turkey. The quake struck the Balikesir region of the country, sending tremors across various western provinces, including Istanbul and Izmir.
With an estimated magnitude of 6.1, the earthquake resulted in prolonged shaking that triggered panic and fear among residents in the affected areas. The continuous tremors raised concerns as shops were among the structures destroyed.
Minister of Health Kemal Memişoğlu is closely monitoring the emergency response to the earthquake. He expressed his well wishes to all citizens affected by the 6.1 magnitude earthquake in Balıkesir Sındırgı and surrounding provinces, highlighting the coordination with relevant institutions to address the situation.
According to Sindirgi’s district administrator Dogukan Koyuncu, no loss of life has been reported so far, but assessments are ongoing. Balikesir’s governor, Ismail Ustaoglu, mentioned that 22 individuals were injured due to panic-related falls following the earthquake.
Numerous individuals have opted to stay outdoors due to fear of returning to their homes, as reported by Haberturk television. To accommodate those reluctant to go back, mosques, schools, and sports halls have been opened for shelter. In Sindirgi, at least three unoccupied buildings and a two-story shop collapsed, with two individuals hospitalized due to panic-related falls.
Geologists suggested that this earthquake is a continuation of previous seismic activities in the region, with Professor Okan Tüysüz emphasizing the need for scientific discussions regarding fault possibilities. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya mentioned ongoing field surveys to assess the damage caused by the earthquake.
Reports from affected individuals described violent shaking of buildings during the earthquake. The earthquake, occurring in the Sindirgi district of Balikesir province, was measured at a magnitude of 6.1 by Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) and 6.0 by the Kandilli Observatory.
The earthquake, close to densely populated cities like Istanbul and Izmir, prompted immediate response efforts and inspections by relevant authorities. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan extended condolences to those affected and emphasized the continuous monitoring of the situation to ensure the safety of the country and its citizens.