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A powerful 6.2 magnitude earthquake hit near Istanbul on Wednesday, rattling several cities across northwestern Turkey and injuring at least 236 people. While no fatalities have been reported, the quake stirred public fear and brought renewed focus to Turkey’s high earthquake risk.

Quake Strikes Near Istanbul, Felt Across the Region

The earthquake struck at 12:49 p.m. local time. Its epicenter was located in the Sea of Marmara, around 40 kilometers southwest of Istanbul. The U.S. Geological Survey reported the quake at a shallow depth of just 10 kilometers. Tremors were felt not only in Istanbul but also in nearby provinces such as Tekirdağ, Yalova, Bursa, and Balıkesir. Even residents in Izmir, about 550 kilometers away, reported shaking.

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said the main quake lasted around 13 seconds and was followed by more than 100 aftershocks. The strongest aftershock measured 5.9 in magnitude.

Panic Injuries Dominate as Buildings Hold

Officials said most of the injuries occurred due to panic rather than structural collapses. Many people jumped from windows or fell while rushing outdoors. Some also suffered from anxiety attacks triggered by the quake.

According to Turkey’s Environment and Urbanisation Minister Murat Kurum, a total of 378 damage reports were received. While no major buildings collapsed, authorities evacuated 12 structures as a precaution. The only reported collapse involved an abandoned building in Istanbul’s historic Fatih district.

Emergency Measures and Shelter Support

In response to the quake, Turkish authorities urged residents to avoid entering damaged or older buildings. Emergency shelters were opened in local mosques and sports halls to accommodate people who feared returning home. Emergency teams remained on high alert throughout the night.

The earthquake occurred on National Sovereignty and Children’s Day, a public holiday in Turkey. Because schools were closed and many families were outdoors, the timing may have helped limit the number of injuries.

Istanbul’s Earthquake Risk Remains Critical

Experts have long warned that Istanbul sits near the North Anatolian Fault, one of the most active seismic zones in the world. Studies from Turkish and international seismologists estimate a 64% chance of a magnitude 7 or greater earthquake hitting the region by 2030.

“The risk is real and ongoing,” said Dr. Emre Altay, a seismic safety researcher. “What we saw today is a reminder of how vulnerable the city still is.”

Government Stresses Preparedness, Cites Past Lessons

In a televised speech, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan addressed the quake, urging calm and preparedness. “Thank God, there don’t appear to be major issues for now. May God protect our nation from all disasters,” he said.

Since the devastating earthquakes in February 2023, which claimed over 53,000 lives in southern Turkey, the government has made major efforts to improve earthquake resilience. These efforts include reinforcing vulnerable structures, demolishing unsafe buildings, and launching new construction projects with stricter safety codes.

According to the Ministry of Urban Development, over 400,000 new housing units are under construction as part of the national rebuilding plan. Many of these are designed to withstand strong seismic activity and are located in newly zoned areas.

Citizens Urged to Stay Alert and Informed

Officials reminded residents to remain cautious and stay updated through official channels. Mobile alerts and emergency apps have become key tools in delivering early warnings and safety guidance in case of further quakes.

As Turkey continues to modernize its infrastructure, public awareness and education remain central to national safety goals.