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On April 23, 2025, at 12:49 PM local time, a significant earthquake with a magnitude of 6.2 struck the Sea of Marmara, approximately 40 kilometers southwest of Istanbul, Turkey. The tremor lasted 13 seconds and was followed by over 50 aftershocks, including one measuring 5.9 in magnitude .
Impact and Casualties
The earthquake caused widespread panic across Istanbul and neighboring provinces, including Tekirdağ, Yalova, Bursa, and Balıkesir. At least 359 individuals were injured, primarily due to falls while attempting to flee buildings. The majority of these injuries occurred in Istanbul, where 236 people were treated .
Several buildings suffered structural damage. In Fatih, an abandoned three-storey building collapsed, while in Silivri, a four-storey building was partially damaged. Additionally, the roof of a building fell in Büyükçekmece, and a three-storey building partially collapsed in Bakırköy .
Seismic Activity and Aftershocks
The earthquake was centered on the North Anatolian Fault, a major fault line that runs across northern Turkey. The tremor was felt as far away as Greece and Bulgaria. Following the main earthquake, 129 aftershocks were recorded, including two with magnitudes of 5.0, which heightened concerns about potential further seismic activity .
Government Response and Public Safety Measures
In response to the earthquake, Turkey's Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) deployed over 3,500 personnel to the affected regions, including 1,443 in Istanbul. These teams were equipped with 250 vehicles and 18 rescue dogs to assist in search and rescue operations .
Education Minister Yusuf Tekin announced the closure of schools and universities in Istanbul and Tekirdağ on April 24 and 25, 2025, to ensure public safety and allow for structural assessments of educational institutions .
Public Reaction and Preparedness Concerns
The earthquake has reignited concerns about Istanbul's preparedness for major seismic events. Experts have long warned that the city, home to over 16 million residents, is at high risk due to its proximity to the North Anatolian Fault. The 1999 İzmit earthquake, which resulted in over 17,000 deaths, remains a stark reminder of the potential devastation.
Seismologist Naci Görür cautioned that the recent tremors could increase strain on the Kumburgaz fault, potentially triggering a larger, more destructive earthquake. He emphasized the need for immediate government, municipal, and public cooperation to improve earthquake readiness .
International Reactions and Travel Advisories
In the aftermath of the earthquake, the UK Foreign Office issued a travel advisory for Turkey, urging caution and advising against travel to certain regions due to the heightened risk of aftershocks and ongoing political tensions .
Conclusion
The April 23, 2025, earthquake serves as a stark reminder of the seismic risks facing Istanbul and surrounding regions. While the immediate impact was less severe than some experts had feared, the event underscores the urgent need for enhanced earthquake preparedness and infrastructure resilience to protect lives and minimize future risks.
