A powerful earthquake measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale struck Turkey’s northwestern Balıkesir province on Sunday evening. The quake hit at 7:53 PM local time with its epicenter near the town of Sındırgı, where an 81-year-old woman tragically lost her life after being trapped under rubble.
At least 16 buildings collapsed in the affected area. Numerous people were injured and many have received prompt medical treatment, although authorities warn that the casualty count could rise. The tremor, occurring at a depth of approximately 11 kilometers, was also felt in Istanbul and surrounding cities.
Turkey’s Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya visited the site and ordered an acceleration of rescue operations.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan expressed his condolences and wished for the swift recovery of those affected. He emphasized the close monitoring of relief efforts and prayed for the country’s safety via a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Sources: BBC, AP