A powerful 6.1-magnitude earthquake struck western Turkey late Monday night, shaking buildings and sending residents fleeing into the streets in panic.
The quake hit Balikesir province’s Sindirgi district at 10:48 p.m. local time, according to Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD). It occurred at a shallow depth of 3.7 miles, while the Kandilli Observatory measured it at magnitude 6.0 and a depth of about 7 miles.
Tremors were felt across a wide region, including Istanbul and Izmir, two of Turkey’s most populous cities. Videos shared on social media showed collapsed buildings, damaged vehicles, and frightened residents gathering in open areas.
Authorities confirmed some structural damage but no immediate reports of casualties.
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced that emergency teams have begun damage assessments, stating:
“All AFAD and relevant institutions immediately began field surveys. I offer my best wishes to our citizens affected by the earthquake. May God protect our country and our nation from disasters.”
The US Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the quake’s epicenter lies close to densely populated areas, raising concerns about potential aftershocks.
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