Magnitude 6.1 earthquake shakes western Turkey - what's happening now!

Magnitude 6.1 earthquake shakes western Turkey - what's happening now!

A strong earthquake shook western Turkey today. With a magnitude of 6.1, the epicenter was in Balikesir province, where the tremors were particularly felt. The metropolises of Istanbul and Izmir were also affected, as the depth of the earthquake was only eleven kilometers. Television images show a collapsed building in Balikesir, fortunately Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya reported that no deaths or injuries were initially reported, which visibly reassured the population, at least for the moment. However, there were numerous aftershocks that further fueled fear in the region. This development could also be related to the fact that Turkey has many geological faults and is considered to be at risk of earthquakes, especially in cities such as Istanbul Insuedthueringen reported.

The situation in Istanbul remains tense. As a result of the first major earthquake on Wednesday, which reached a magnitude of 6.2, more than 300 aftershocks have been recorded to date. Among these there was even one with a magnitude of 4.6. Health Minister Kemal Memişoğl informed that a total of 236 people were injured, with 173 of those injured in Istanbul. Some injuries have even occurred while attempting to jump from buildings. In view of these challenges, Urban Development Minister Murat Kurum has already evacuated twelve buildings as a precaution, while many people decided to spend the nights outdoors. Tents are pitched in parks and green spaces to provide some shelter. According to Kleine Zeitung, many citizens are thinking about fleeing Istanbul, which has led to an increase in bookings in hotels on the Aegean coast.

Further risks and recommendations

Geologists warn of the possibility of an even stronger earthquake, which could reach intensities between 7.4 and 7.7. This sparked criticism from the ruling AKP after well-known geologist Celal Sengör recommended leaving Istanbul long-term. According to Afad, over a million buildings in Istanbul are not considered earthquake-proof. These risks are extremely worrying for the population, especially as Afad warns against entering buildings at risk.

Additionally, a risk map from the Global Earthquake Model Foundation shows that the risk of earthquakes in urban areas is extremely high. The plate tectonic processes responsible for the frequent earthquakes continue to be facilitated by the movement of the African and Eurasian plates. Bait from volcanoes in the Mediterranean, such as Mount Etna in Sicily and others, can also contribute to earthquakes. Although these developments make the probability of a tsunami appear statistically lower, the threatened coastal region is exposed to increased danger, as explained in an article on RND.

What should people do now to protect themselves? The recommendations are to seek shelter inside a building under a sturdy table or bed, while outside, seek open spaces away from buildings and trees. Drivers should remain in their vehicles to stay safe, while beachgoers should head to higher ground.