6.1 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Northwestern Turkey, Leaving Injuries and Collapsed Buildings

Earthquake Hits Northwestern Turkey

Ten Buildings Collapse

Aftershocks Keep Region on Alert

According to EFE, a powerful 6.1 magnitude earthquake struck Turkey’s Marmara region on Sunday, injuring several people and causing the collapse of at least ten buildings.

Local authorities reported the epicenter was located in the district of Sindirgi, Balikesir Province, at a depth of 11 kilometers, according to the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD).

The quake, recorded at 7:53 p.m. local time (4:53 p.m. GMT), was felt strongly in major cities including Istanbul, Bursa, and Kocaeli.

Shortly afterward, several aftershocks — some stronger than magnitude 4 — rattled the region, heightening public concern.

Rescues and Emergency Operations After Earthquake in Turkey

Preliminary magnitude 6.1 earthquake strikes #Turkey.

A strong quake with a depth of 10 km and an epicenter 10 km south-southwest of Bigadiç, Turkey, was recorded moments ago.

Some damage has been reported. It’s worth noting that in 2023, the same country was struck by a devastating earthquake… pic.twitter.com/v33VyYE33q

— Fuerza Informativa Azteca (@AztecaNoticias) August 10, 2025

Sindirgi Mayor Serkan Sak confirmed that ten buildings had collapsed in the district.

“We managed to rescue four people trapped in a collapsed building and are trying to reach two more. The pharmacy located below the building was completely destroyed,” he told reporters.

He also noted that multiple neighborhoods had suffered collapses and that communication with some affected areas remained impossible.

Rescue teams have been working tirelessly to locate and assist people trapped under the rubble.

Earthquake Revives Memories of Past Tragedies in Turkey

AFAD urged residents to avoid entering or remaining inside buildings that might be at risk of collapse.

Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya stated on social media that AFAD and all relevant agencies had immediately begun field assessments.

Yerlikaya confirmed constant monitoring of the situation in coordination with local authorities.

Istanbul Governor Davut Gul said no major damage had been reported in the city so far, though “structural inspections” were underway to detect any hidden issues.

Panic, Aftershocks, and International Response

In several cities, people rushed into the streets in panic after the tremor.

The NTV network reported injuries in Sindirgi and broadcast footage of collapsed buildings.

Aftershocks have kept tensions high, forcing many families to spend the night outdoors for fear of further collapses.

Authorities advised residents to stay informed through official channels and to avoid approaching damaged structures.