A 6.2-magnitude earthquake struck near Istanbul on Wednesday, injuring over 230 people. The tremors, which were felt across northwestern Turkey, caused widespread panic but no fatalities have been reported. The quake has intensified concerns over Istanbul’s vulnerability to major earthquakes, with experts warning of a high risk of future seismic events.

Quake Shakes Northwestern Turkey

The earthquake occurred at 12:49 p.m. local time, with its epicenter located in the Sea of Marmara, approximately 40 kilometers southwest of Istanbul. The tremor had a shallow depth of 10 kilometers, which contributed to its widespread impact. The U.S. Geological Survey confirmed the intensity of the earthquake, which led to tremors felt not only in Istanbul but also in neighboring provinces including Tekirdağ, Yalova, Bursa, and Balıkesir. The coastal city of Izmir, located over 500 kilometers away, also reported mild shaking.

According to Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya, the initial tremor lasted approximately 13 seconds, followed by more than 100 aftershocks. The most significant aftershock measured 5.9 on the Richter scale, further amplifying the anxiety and uncertainty across the region.

Injuries Mainly Due to Panic

While the earthquake itself did not cause direct fatalities, authorities confirmed 236 injuries, most of which were the result of panic-induced actions. Many individuals were injured while trying to flee buildings, or after jumping out of windows in fear of further tremors. The sheer chaos of the situation contributed to the number of casualties, as residents scrambled to escape their homes.

In addition to the injuries, 378 cases of structural damage were reported. However, Environment Minister Murat Kurum noted that only one building in Istanbul’s Fatih district, an abandoned property, collapsed. Twelve other buildings were evacuated as a precautionary measure, as officials advised people to stay clear of potentially unstable structures.

To accommodate displaced residents, authorities opened mosques and sports halls as emergency shelters for those too afraid to return to their homes. This response was part of a coordinated effort to ensure safety and provide refuge in the aftermath of the earthquake.

Istanbul’s Vulnerability to Future Earthquakes

Seismologists have long warned of Istanbul’s high earthquake risk. Experts estimate there is a 64% chance of a magnitude 7 or larger earthquake occurring in the city by 2030. This prediction has fueled ongoing concerns about the city’s preparedness and the need for structural improvements.

Wednesday’s earthquake occurred on a public holiday—National Sovereignty and Children’s Day—when many children were outside celebrating, which may have helped mitigate the severity of injuries. However, the event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers Istanbul faces and the urgency for continued efforts to fortify the city’s buildings and infrastructure.

President Erdoğan Urges Calm and Highlights Preparedness

In response to the earthquake, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan reassured the public, urging calm in the face of the disaster. “Thankfully, there appear to be no serious issues at this stage. May God protect our country from harm,” Erdoğan said in a statement. His comments were aimed at reassuring the people of Turkey that the government is prepared and ready to respond to future emergencies.

Following the devastating earthquakes in February 2023, which claimed more than 53,000 lives, Turkey has launched a series of initiatives to reinforce vulnerable buildings. These efforts are part of a broader national strategy to mitigate the potential devastation of future earthquakes. The government is also working on clearing unsafe buildings and improving construction standards to minimize risks in the event of another major earthquake.

The 6.2-magnitude earthquake in Istanbul highlights the ongoing seismic risks faced by the city. While the immediate aftermath saw numerous injuries and significant panic, no fatalities have been reported. The event has renewed focus on Istanbul’s preparedness for larger quakes, especially given the high probability of a major earthquake striking the region in the near future. Turkey’s continued efforts to reinforce buildings and enhance emergency response measures remain crucial as the country prepares for future challenges.