Strong Tremors Shake Balıkesir Province
A powerful earthquake measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale struck western Türkiye early Tuesday, shaking several major cities and causing widespread panic among residents. According to the Turkish Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), the epicentre was near the town of Sındırgı in Balıkesir province, with a depth of approximately six kilometres.
Tremors were felt across a wide region, including Istanbul, Bursa, Manisa, and Izmir — some of Türkiye’s most populous and industrial areas. Many residents rushed into the streets as aftershocks rippled through the area, fearing building collapses.
Damage Reported but No Immediate Casualties
Preliminary reports suggest that numerous buildings sustained damage, particularly in older neighbourhoods. Local media said cracks appeared in the walls of several homes and offices, while some structures suffered partial collapses.
AFAD and municipal rescue teams were quickly dispatched to affected districts to assess the situation. Officials confirmed that, so far, there were no immediate reports of fatalities or serious injuries, but inspections were ongoing. Power outages were reported in some areas, though services were being restored gradually.
Residents Relive Trauma of Past Disasters
Many residents said the tremors brought back painful memories of previous earthquakes — similar to how Pakistan recently marked two decades since its devastating 2005 quake, Pakistan Marks 20 Years Since the 2005 Earthquake. The Balıkesir region experienced a quake of similar magnitude — also 6.1 — in August this year, which left one person dead and dozens injured.
Türkiye sits on several major fault lines, making it one of the most earthquake-prone countries in the world. The North Anatolian Fault, in particular, poses a constant threat to densely populated cities such as Istanbul.
In February 2023, the country suffered one of the deadliest earthquakes in its modern history, when twin quakes in the southeast killed more than 55,000 people and destroyed tens of thousands of buildings. That catastrophe prompted a nationwide review of building safety standards and emergency preparedness.
Authorities Urge Caution and Preparedness
AFAD has urged residents in the affected provinces to stay alert for aftershocks and to avoid entering damaged buildings. Emergency hotlines and temporary shelters have been set up for those whose homes may have been compromised.
Seismologists continue to monitor the region closely, warning that aftershocks could persist for several days. Local authorities emphasized that the rapid response system introduced after the 2023 disaster has helped ensure a more coordinated emergency effort.
As of now, Türkiye remains on high alert, with officials assuring the public that rescue teams and engineers are on the ground, assessing damage and ensuring safety in the quake-hit areas.
