6.2 magnitude earthquake jolts Turkey’s Istanbul

A powerful earthquake struck Turkey on Wednesday, shaking buildings across Istanbul and prompting residents to evacuate.

According to Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), the tremor occurred at 12:49pm local time (09:49 GMT) in the Marmara Sea near the Silivri district, registering a preliminary magnitude of 6.2.

The German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) said the quake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles).

Although there were no immediate reports of serious damage, the tremor caused widespread alarm in Istanbul, which straddles both Europe and Asia along the Bosphorus strait. One person was reportedly injured after jumping from a balcony in panic, broadcaster TGRT reported.

The incident took place during a public holiday, and authorities have launched post-quake assessments. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said on X that field inspections were underway and extended his well wishes to those affected.

AFAD has urged residents to avoid entering any damaged structures, reports UNB.