Expert warns of increasing earthquake risk in Istanbul following strong tremors

Following a series of earthquakes that shook Istanbul on Wednesday, renowned Turkish geologist and earthquake expert Professor Naci Gorur issued a warning about increasing stress along the Kumburgaz Fault zone in the Marmara Sea.

Gorur, a faculty member in the department of geological engineering at Istanbul Technical University, is known for his expertise in sedimentology, marine geology, and seismic risk in the region. He is widely respected for his research on basin analysis and earthquake activity.

Addressing the initial 4.0 magnitude earthquake that occurred earlier in the day off the coast of Silivri.

At around noon, a 4.0 magnitude earthquake occurred offshore Silivri. This quake was located along the Kumburgaz Fault zone, which is a locked fault currently accumulating stress. From time to time, it releases some of this stress through minor earthquakes. The location of this tremor is significant—we must remain vigilant. The Kumburgaz Fault is under increasing pressure.

Professor Naci Gorur

His comments came after a 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck the region at 12:49 p.m. local time, with its epicenter off the coast of Silivri. The tremor was widely felt across Istanbul and neighboring provinces, sparking concern among residents and prompting a swift emergency response.

Just two minutes later, at 12:51 p.m., a 4.4 magnitude aftershock was recorded in the Marmara Sea, approximately 15 kilometers from Buyukcekmece, at a depth of 7 kilometers.

Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed the seismic activity in a public statement:

A 6.2 magnitude earthquake occurred off the coast of Silivri, Istanbul. The tremor was felt in nearby provinces as well. AFAD (Disaster and Emergency Management Authority) and other relevant institutions have deployed teams for field assessments. I extend my best wishes to all citizens affected by the earthquake.

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya

Although there have been no immediate reports of injuries or significant damage, experts warn that these tremors serve as a stark reminder of Istanbul’s ongoing earthquake risk.

The North Anatolian Fault, which runs beneath the Marmara Sea, is one of the most active and potentially dangerous fault lines in the world.

Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation, with the possibility of additional aftershocks still present.