Islamabad, 23 Apr ,2025: Earthquake Jolts Istanbul on Wednesday afternoon as a powerful seismic event measuring 6.2 on the Richter scale rattled Turkey’s largest and most populous city.
The tremor, which struck shortly before 1 p.m. local time, disrupted daily life for over 15 million residents and triggered widespread fear across the metropolitan area.
According to the latest information from officials, Earthquake Jolts Istanbul led to over 150 individuals sustaining injuries not from structural collapses, but from leaping out of buildings in panic.
The Istanbul Governor’s Office confirmed that all injured individuals are being treated in hospitals, and their conditions are not life-threatening.
The quake’s epicenter was located beneath the Marmara Sea, at a depth of approximately 4.2 miles, the country’s disaster management authority, AFAD, reported.
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Despite originating offshore, the tremor was powerful enough to be felt hundreds of miles away, reaching nearby provinces. A series of aftershocks followed, the most notable being one with a magnitude of 4.9.
Emergency response teams quickly mobilized, urging citizens to stay away from compromised buildings. Authorities advised the public to avoid using mobile phone lines unless absolutely necessary, recommending internet communication to prevent network congestion.
Earthquake Jolts Istanbul occurred during a public holiday National Sovereignty and Children’s Day adding a layer of complexity to emergency operations.
Although no fatalities or major structural collapses were reported, residents in districts such as Sisli remained apprehensive, with many choosing to spend the night outdoors out of fear of further tremors.
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya stated that damage evaluations were underway, and temporary accommodations would be made available for those hesitant to return home. However, no additional details were provided.
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Precautionary evacuations were carried out in several hospitals, although services continued for patients in critical condition. Public parks and open spaces across the city saw an influx of people seeking safety.
Officials continued to stress the importance of staying clear of buildings with any sign of damage.
The quake, though brief, served as a stark reminder of Istanbul’s seismic vulnerability and the urgent need for preparedness in a region prone to tectonic activity.
