Istanbul Quakes Injure 150+, Buildings Shake

A series of earthquakes shook Istanbul, Turkey’s largest city, on Wednesday, injuring more than 150 people and triggering widespread panic. The most powerful tremor registered a magnitude of 6.2, according to local seismic authorities, and was strong enough to be felt as far away as Ankara, nearly 275 miles from the epicenter.

Though no fatalities or major structural damage have been reported, officials say 151 people were injured—many while trying to flee buildings in panic, with some jumping from heights. Istanbul’s governor confirmed that an abandoned building in the Faith district collapsed, but no one was hurt.

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya reported that the 6.2-magnitude quake struck at a depth of seven kilometers and lasted 13 seconds. Since then, 51 aftershocks have been recorded, the strongest measuring 5.9. Turkey’s emergency call centre has received over 6,000 calls, mostly from residents seeking information.

Energy, gas, water, and sewage systems remain intact, and schools in Istanbul will be closed Thursday and Friday as a precaution, according to Education Minister Yusuf Tekin. He also announced that schoolyards will be opened as public safe zones.

The earthquakes come as a stark reminder of Istanbul’s vulnerability to seismic activity. The city sits on the North Anatolian Fault, making it one of the most earthquake-prone urban areas in the region. Experts at the Kandilli Observatory estimate there is a 64% chance that a magnitude-7 earthquake could strike Istanbul by 2030.

In February 2023, twin earthquakes measuring 7.6 and 7.7 devastated southeastern Turkey and northern Syria, claiming 55,000 lives. The recent tremors have left residents rattled but thankful that this time, Istanbul appears to have escaped serious damage.

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Many are still wary—some have returned to their homes only to leave again after feeling aftershocks. Others have prepared “earthquake bags” with essentials, ready to flee at a moment’s notice.Despite the unease, life in Istanbul is slowly returning to its usual rhythm. Cafes and restaurants are open, and the city’s streets are once again filled with the familiar hum of activity. Still, the memory of the tremors lingers, and with it, the looming fear of a more powerful quake yet to come.

 

 

 

 

Content credit: Ohidah Oluwaferanmi

Image credit: euronews.com