No major damage reported after 6.2 magnitude earthquake shakes Istanbul
People evacuate buildings in panic and contact their loved ones after a 6.2 magnitude earthquake strikes Istanbul with the epicenter in Silivri district, in Kadikoy district of Istanbul, Türkiye on April 23, 2025. (AA Photo)
A 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck near Silivri, off the coast of Istanbul, at 12:49 p.m. local time Wednesday, shaking much of northwestern Türkiye and prompting citywide safety checks.
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed that, as of now, no emergency calls have reported collapsed buildings.
“So far, no one has called 112 to report a building collapse,” Yerlikaya said in a live interview with TRT Haber. “That’s a huge relief.”
The tremor, which occurred at a depth of 6.9 to 7 kilometers, was felt across Istanbul, Tekirdag, Bursa, Yalova, and Balikesir, according to the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD).
No casualties, no structural collapse: AFAD
In an official statement, AFAD confirmed that no fatalities or major structural damage had been reported. Emergency protocols under the Türkiye Disaster Response Plan were immediately activated.
“Field assessments and emergency call reviews confirm that, as of now, there are no reports of casualties or destruction,” the agency said.
A crisis coordination center was established at AFAD headquarters in Istanbul, led by Governor Davut Gul and supported by experts and public officials.
Metro, health services operating safely
Metro Istanbul reported no damage to metro, tram, or funicular lines, including viaducts and bridges.
“Initial inspections show no issues. Cable cars and elevators have been temporarily closed for safety checks and will be reactivated gradually,” the agency stated.
Provincial Health Director Abdullah Emre Guner confirmed that no injuries were reported to 112 or hospitals.
“All UMKE teams and medical staff are in place and closely monitoring the situation,” he said.
Scientific insight: Partial rupture may reduce risk
Professor Hasan Sozbilir, head of the Earthquake Research Center at Dokuz Eylul University, assessed the tremor as a partial rupture along the western segment of the North Anatolian Fault.
“Only a portion of the fault was activated. A complete rupture would likely produce a 7.4 or 7.5 magnitude quake. This partial event is actually positive, as it may relieve some built-up stress,” he said.
He added that the quake was centered about 24–25 kilometers from Silivri and was consistent with expectations for seismic activity in the area.
Widespread disruption, heavy traffic
Following the quake, many residents evacuated their buildings, leading to heavy congestion on major roads.
According to Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IMM), traffic intensity reached 76% citywide by 2:17 p.m., peaking at 78% on the European side.
Congestion was reported across D-100 Highway, TEM Motorway, and 15 July Martyrs Bridge, as residents chose to travel by car instead of returning indoors.
Calls for caution and calm
Yerlikaya reminded the public that Türkiye is an earthquake-prone country and emphasized the importance of remaining calm and avoiding panic, especially during the first six hours after a quake, which are crucial for assessments.
“We must not overload communication lines. There have been minor injury reports due to panic, but no major emergencies,” he said.
Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan have been briefed and are monitoring developments closely. Yilmaz also confirmed that no loss of life had been reported and urged citizens to follow official updates only.
