6.2 Earthquake Shakes Istanbul, Injures 150+, Aftershocks Rattle Region/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ A 6.2-magnitude earthquake struck Istanbul, injuring more than 150 people. No major damage reported, but schools have closed and aftershocks continue. Officials urge caution as residents remain on edge over future quakes.
6.2-Magnitude Quake Shakes Istanbul, Injures Over 150 — Quick Looks
- Magnitude: 6.2, with more than 50 aftershocks
- Location: Sea of Marmara, southwest of Istanbul
- Injuries: Over 150 people hurt trying to flee buildings
- Closures: Schools shut down Thursday and Friday
- Damage: No widespread destruction; some structural impacts reported
- Aftershocks: One measured as strong as 5.9
- Depth: 10 kilometers (6 miles), a shallow quake
- Government Response: Emergency services on alert; parks opened for shelter
Over 150 Injured as Strong Earthquake Rattles Istanbul, Triggers Mass Panic
Deep Looks
ISTANBUL, Apr. 23, 2025 — A powerful 6.2-magnitude earthquake rocked Istanbul and surrounding provinces on Wednesday, sending terrified residents into the streets and injuring more than 150 people — most while trying to escape from buildings in a rush of panic. The quake struck at 12:49 p.m. local time and lasted 13 seconds, according to the Turkish Interior Ministry.
The U.S. Geological Survey reported the epicenter was located in the Sea of Marmara, about 40 kilometers (25 miles) southwest of Istanbul. The quake’s shallow depth of 10 kilometers amplified its intensity, shaking buildings and alarming the city’s population of over 16 million.
Injuries From Panic, Not Collapse
The Istanbul governor’s office confirmed that 151 people were hospitalized, most with injuries sustained from jumping from balconies or rushing down staircases in fear. Thankfully, none were in life-threatening condition.
Residents rushed to parks and open areas for safety, some even setting up tents in green spaces. The scene was marked by loud sirens, swirling helicopters, and nervous families.
“We shook incredibly. It threw us around,” said Leyla Ucar, a fitness instructor who was on the 20th floor of a building when the quake hit. “It was very scary.”
Others like Senol Sari, who fled his apartment with his children, echoed the sentiment. “It’s the quake we’ve all feared. And we know the big one hasn’t even come yet.”
Nationwide Impact and School Closures
The tremor was felt across neighboring provinces including Tekirdag, Yalova, Bursa, Balikesir, and even as far south as Izmir. More than 50 aftershocks were recorded, one reaching a magnitude of 5.9.
Although authorities say there were no confirmed building collapses, a derelict structure did fall in Istanbul’s historic Fatih district. Damage assessments are ongoing.
Education Minister Yusuf Tekin announced all schools in Istanbul would be closed Thursday and Friday to ensure student safety, adding that schoolyards would remain open as shelter space.
Long-Feared Seismic Event
Turkey is no stranger to earthquakes. The country sits on two major fault lines. A devastating 7.8-magnitude earthquake in February 2023 killed over 53,000 people in southern Turkey and northern Syria, putting cities like Istanbul on high alert for future seismic events.
Wednesday’s quake revived fears about Istanbul’s readiness. Despite no catastrophic damage, many residents worry the next quake could be worse.
“I’m considering leaving the city,” said Emre Senkay, who waited in a long gas station queue as many prepared to flee. “If a more serious quake comes, I don’t want to be stuck here.”
Government Urges Calm, Preparedness
“Thank God, there does not seem to be any problems for now,” he said. “May God protect our country and our people from all kinds of disasters.”
The Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) urged residents to remain calm but vigilant, avoid reentering potentially damaged buildings, and be prepared for continued aftershocks.
As night fell, many remained in parks or gathered in public squares, reluctant to return indoors. With schools closed, authorities are now focused on ongoing structural assessments and reviewing urban safety projects aimed at minimizing the impact of future quakes.
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