EARTHQUAKE SHAKES TURKISH CITY OF ISTANBUL THAT SERVED AS TURKEY’S REMINDER OF ITS SEISMIC SENSITIVITY
Earthquake shakes Turkish city of Istanbul., Turkey experienced a strong 6.2 magnitude earthquake on 23/04/2025 AT 10:49am , which shocked the entire city and revived worries of a major disaster in one of the most seismically active areas of the globe. Feelings of panic among residents, structural damage to structures, and doubts regarding the nation’s readiness for a catastrophic seismic catastrophe resulted from the tremor felt all around northwest Turkey.
Specifics of the latest earthquake.
The epicenter of the earthquake occurred shallowly deep in the Sea of Marmara, close to Istanbul, which amplified its impact. Reports state that major shaking happened in Istanbul and surrounding areas, with many running from buildings fearing collapse. Although no official casualties were recognized right away, several older buildings cracked and minor injuries were reported. Emergency reaction teams were quickly sent by authorities to evaluate damage and guarantee public safety.
Emergency Management Authority (AFAD)
The Turkish Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) told the people that aftershocks were under observation and admitted the scope of the disaster. Given Istanbul’s proximity to one of the most dangerous fault lines in the world, the North Anatolian Fault (NAF), scientists advised that this earthquake might be the forerunner of more major events.
Turkey’s history of terrible earthquakes
Turkey’s many active fault lines make it especially vulnerable to earthquakes. Particularly the North Anatolian Fault has generated some of the deadliest earthquakes in the nation:
1. M 7.6’s 1999 İzmit earthquake
Among Turkey’s worst tragedies, the August 17, 1999 İzmit earthquake claimed around 17,000 lives and left almost 500,000 homeless. The near- Istanbul earthquake exposed major weaknesses in Turkey’s emergency reaction system and construction norms.
2. Van earthquake 2011 (M7.2)
Over 600 people were killed and extensive damage was done when a strong earthquake hit eastern Turkey in October 2011. Once more under fire for the high death toll were inadequate building techniques.
3. Between Turkey and Syria in February 2023 (M7.8 and M7.5), earthquakes
Two large earthquakes last year devastated northern Syria and southern Turkey within hours of one another, killing over 50,000 people and uprooting millions. The event highlighted the vital necessity of better urban design and infrastructure resistant to earthquakes.
Why is Istanbul especially vulnerable?
With almost 15 million people, Istanbul, Turkey’s biggest city, is perilously near the North Anatolian Fault. Long warnings from seismologists indicate that the city is likely to see a catastrophic 7.0 or more earthquake. The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality calculated that a 7.5 magnitude earthquake could: demolish up to 90,000 structures.Kill between 30,000 and 70,000 persons. Distribute millions of displaces.
What ought the residents to do?
Istanbul citizens should be aware of escape routes and get ready with water, food, first aid, torches. They should also point out safe places in their houses, including beneath strong tables and away from windows.
Advice for the aftermath of a seismic event.
Hours, days, or even weeks following the initial earthquake, you may feel tremors.
Damage to buildings and potentially dangerous falling debris are consequences of aftershocks.
Keep fires out of structures that have been damaged.
Never use a lighter or match during an earthquake because they can burst gas lines.
Avoid going to the beach if you reside near the water.
Tsunamis and flooding, both very destructive, can be caused by earthquakes.
Be cautious while driving and consider alternate routes.
It could be challenging to reach your destination due to structural damage and traffic signal outages.
Final Thought
Istanbul’s most recent 6.2 magnitude earthquake reminds us of Turkey’s continuous seismic risk rather strikingly. Although the nation has tried to raise disaster readiness, much more has to be done to guarantee public safety. Act now—before disaster strikes once more—scientists project a strong likelihood of a devastating earthquake in Istanbul throughout the next few decades.