SRINAGAR: A moderate earthquake measuring magnitude 5 struck Istanbul and parts of northwestern Turkiye on Thursday afternoon, prompting panic and the evacuation of schools, though no casualties or significant damage were immediately reported, authorities said, as reported by Reuters.
The tremor occurred at 2:55 p.m. local time (1155 GMT), with its epicentre located in the Sea of Marmara, off Tekirdag province, according to the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD). The quake was recorded at a depth of 6.71 kilometres.
Residents across Istanbul rushed outdoors as buildings shook, while students were evacuated from classrooms in several districts. Emergency services said precautionary inspections were being carried out in affected areas, but initial assessments did not indicate serious structural damage.
Turkiye, situated on several active fault lines, remains highly prone to seismic activity. The country has experienced devastating earthquakes in the past, including the February 2023 twin quakes in the south that claimed more than 50,000 lives.
Authorities urged residents to remain calm and follow safety advisories as aftershocks remain possible in the region.
