A 6.1 magnitude earthquake struck the Balıkesir province in western Turkey on the evening of August 10, according to an announcement from the Turkish Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD). The earthquake’s epicenter was located in the town of Sındırgı, with a focal depth of 7 to 11 kilometers. The quake has resulted in casualties and structural damage.
Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed in a press conference that one 81-year-old person has died, and 29 others have been injured. The minister noted that none of the injuries are life-threatening. At least 16 buildings collapsed in the quake. Emergency services successfully rescued five people from the rubble, with search and rescue efforts ongoing for one remaining person believed to be trapped.
The tremor was felt in multiple provinces, including Istanbul and its surrounding areas. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan issued a statement expressing his condolences to the affected residents and confirmed that necessary measures have been taken by the relevant authorities. He added that the government is closely monitoring the situation. AFAD has also reported several aftershocks in the Sındırgı district, including a 4.6 magnitude tremor, and has advised the public to stay away from damaged buildings.
This seismic event serves as a reminder that Turkey is situated on a major fault line and is prone to earthquakes. In February 2023, a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake in the country’s southern region killed over 53,000 people and destroyed hundreds of thousands of buildings.