6.2-Magnitude Earthquake Rocks Istanbul, Injuring Over 150 People
Istanbul, Turkey (April 23, 2025) —
A powerful 6.2-magnitude earthquake struck Istanbul on Tuesday afternoon, sending shockwaves through Turkey's largest city and causing widespread panic among its 16 million residents. The quake hit at 12:49 PM local time, with its epicenter located in the Sea of Marmara, approximately 40 kilometers southwest of Istanbul, at a shallow depth of just 10 kilometers, according to Turkey's Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD).
Witnesses described terrifying scenes as buildings swayed and thousands of people rushed into the streets seeking safety. Authorities confirmed that over 150 people were injured, most while fleeing buildings or due to falling debris. Emergency crews were dispatched across the city, and hospitals reported a surge in admissions related to earthquake injuries.
While there were no immediate reports of widespread structural damage, an abandoned building collapsed in the historic Fatih district, and minor damage was noted in several older structures across the city. Public transportation services temporarily halted, including Istanbul’s metro system, while crews checked tunnels and tracks for damage.
The earthquake triggered a series of aftershocks, the largest measuring 5.3 on the Richter scale, further rattling nerves and complicating rescue and recovery operations. Seismologists warn that the tremor could have increased stress on the dangerous North Anatolian Fault, which runs just south of Istanbul, raising concerns about the potential for even stronger quakes in the future.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan issued a statement from Ankara, acknowledging the scare but praising the city's resilience. "Thanks to ongoing investments in earthquake preparedness and urban renewal, Istanbul avoided a larger tragedy today," Erdoğan said. He also urged residents to remain cautious and stay away from damaged or unstable buildings until they are officially inspected.
Disaster agencies set up temporary shelters for those afraid to return to their homes, while schools were closed for the remainder of the week for structural assessments.
The earthquake struck during a national holiday celebrating Turkey’s National Sovereignty and Children's Day, with many families outside participating in festivities. The timing contributed to the chaos, as crowds scrambled to reach open spaces.
Globally, seismologists and relief agencies are watching the situation closely. Istanbul’s vulnerability to earthquakes is well known; experts have long warned that the city, which sits atop a major fault line, is overdue for a catastrophic event.
The UK Foreign Office and U.S. State Department issued advisories urging travelers to exercise caution but did not recommend avoiding travel to Turkey altogether.
Emergency crews remain on high alert as aftershocks continue to ripple across the Marmara region. Residents are advised to have emergency kits ready and to follow official updates on structural assessments and safety protocols.
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