Powerful earthquake in Turkey: Istanbul shaken by 6.2-magnitude tremors
A strong earthquake struck the Istanbul area — authorities urge residents to stay away from damaged buildings and avoid travel while emergency services respond.
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Turkey. On April 24 at 12:49 p.m. local time, a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 6.2 struck the Sea of Marmara region near Istanbul.
According to Turkey’s disaster agency AFAD, the epicenter was at a depth of 10 km. An initial 3.9-magnitude tremor occurred an hour before the main quake, followed by several aftershocks.
Seismic activity was felt not only in Istanbul but also in nearby provinces. Authorities urged the public to avoid entering damaged buildings and to refrain from traveling by private or public transport.
Istanbul's governor warned of possible collapses. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced that all rescue services were already on site.
No casualties or major damage have been reported so far, but the situation remains tense.
It was also reported that a 5.2-magnitude earthquake occurred in southern California, in San Diego County. Authorities began damage assessment and are ready to deploy emergency services if needed.