Massive 6.1 Magnitude Earth Quake Jolts Western Turkey. Tremors Felt in Istanbul & Izmir

A strong 6.1-magnitude earthquake struck western Turkey late Monday night, triggering panic across multiple provinces and causing several previously damaged buildings to collapse. Authorities confirmed there were no immediate reports of fatalities, though 22 people sustained injuries mostly from panic and falls during the tremors.

According to the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), the earthquake’s epicenter was located in the Sindirgi district of Balikesir province, striking at 10:48 p.m. local time at a shallow depth of approximately 6 kilometers. The quake’s impact was widely felt across Istanbul, Bursa, Manisa, and Izmir, followed by a series of mild aftershocks.

Structural Damage and Emergency Measures

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya reported that three unoccupied buildings and a two-story commercial property in Sindirgi—already weakened by previous tremors—collapsed after the latest quake. Local officials quickly deployed response teams to assess the damage and ensure public safety.

Governor Ismail Ustaoglu confirmed that most injuries occurred due to people rushing out of buildings in panic rather than from structural damage. “We have not recorded any casualties so far, but field teams are continuing detailed inspections,” he added.

Television footage showed frightened residents spending the night outdoors amid fears of further aftershocks. With rain starting to fall, authorities opened mosques, schools, and sports complexes to provide temporary shelter for residents hesitant to return home.

Pakistan Expresses Solidarity

In a message on social media platform X, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar extended heartfelt condolences and solidarity to the people of Turkey, reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering support during this difficult time.

Region’s Seismic History

This marks the second major quake to hit Sindirgi in recent months. In August 2025, the same region experienced a similar 6.1-magnitude earthquake that claimed one life and injured dozens. Experts note that Turkey lies on multiple active fault lines, making it one of the most earthquake-prone countries in the world.

The nation is still recovering from the devastating 7.8-magnitude earthquake of 2023, which killed over 53,000 people in southern Turkey and 6,000 in northern Syria, destroying hundreds of thousands of buildings.