Strong Earthquake Shakes Istanbul, Triggers Panic and Evacuations

Magnitude 6.2 quake strikes Silivri region; aftershocks recorded, no casualties reported so far.

Watan-A powerful earthquake shook buildings in Istanbul on Wednesday, prompting residents to rush outside in fear at the moment of the tremor.

According to Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), the earthquake measured 6.2 in magnitude and struck the Silivri area, north of Istanbul, at 12:49 PM local time. AFAD stated that the quake occurred at a depth of 6.92 kilometers and was felt in neighboring provinces as well.

The German Research Centre for Geosciences also reported a quake, measuring it at 6.02 on the Richter scale, with an epicenter 10 kilometers deep.

Panic in Istanbul After Quake and Aftershocks

Residents of Istanbul and surrounding provinces felt the tremor, which lasted between 10 and 15 seconds and caused widespread panic.

In response, Turkey’s Interior Minister announced that AFAD, along with other relevant agencies, has launched field surveys to assess the impact of the earthquake.

As of now, there have been no confirmed reports of casualties or material damage.

Later in the day, AFAD reported two aftershocks measuring 4.4 and 4.9 in magnitude off the coast of Büyükçekmece, north of Istanbul.

Citizens were warned not to enter or remain near buildings damaged by the quake.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan commented: “I wish safety for our citizens and we are closely monitoring the situation.”

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