Powerful quake hits Sindirgi, felt in Istanbul and Izmir; authorities begin search and rescue efforts amid building collapses.
Strong 6.1 Earthquake Hits Western Turkey
A 6.1-magnitude earthquake struck Sindirgi in western Turkey on Sunday evening, according to the Turkish disaster management agency (AFAD). The tremor was widely felt across multiple cities, including Istanbul and the popular tourist destination Izmir.
Damage and Aftershocks
Several buildings collapsed in the Balikesir province, with images broadcast by Turkish media showing the destruction. Shortly after the main quake at 7:53 pm local time, a 4.6-magnitude aftershock shook the area.
Rescue Operations Underway
Turkey’s Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed on social media that all disaster response teams and relevant agencies have started ground search operations immediately. So far, no casualties or major injuries have been officially reported.
Turkey’s Vulnerability to Earthquakes
Turkey lies on multiple geological fault lines, making it prone to frequent seismic activity. In February 2023, a devastating earthquake in the southwest killed over 53,000 people and severely damaged the city of Antakya
