6.1 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Balıkesir — Felt Across Istanbul and the Aegean Region

A powerful earthquake struck Turkey’s Balıkesir province this evening, with the epicenter located in the Sındırgı district. The tremor, measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale, hit at 19:53 local time and was recorded at a depth of approximately 11 kilometers, according to AFAD (Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority).

Shockwaves Felt in Major Cities

The quake wasn’t isolated to Balıkesir. Tremors were felt strongly across a wide region, including Istanbul, İzmir, Bursa, Aydın, Yalova, Eskişehir, and even as far as Ankara. Social media quickly lit up with people sharing their experiences — from swaying chandeliers to brief evacuations from high-rise buildings.

Immediate Response from Authorities

AFAD announced that they are closely monitoring the situation and have mobilized teams to assess any damage and support affected residents. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya also provided a statement, confirming that teams from AFAD and other relevant institutions are conducting field inspections.

He noted that one building in Sındırgı had collapsed, and while two individuals trapped inside have been rescued, efforts continue to reach two more people believed to be inside. In the surrounding villages, the gendarmerie has launched search and assessment operations.

Injuries Reported, But No Fatalities

Health Minister Mehmet Memişoğlu confirmed that four people have been injured and are currently receiving treatment at nearby hospitals. Thankfully, none of the injuries are life-threatening, according to the minister’s update.

Reports indicate that at least 10 buildings have collapsed.

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed that one building in the town center was destroyed, and two people were successfully rescued from the rubble.

Sındırgı Mayor Serkan Sak also provided an update, stating that six people were inside one of the collapsed buildings — four of them have been rescued, while two remain trapped under the debris. Rescue operations are ongoing.

Series of Aftershocks Keep Residents on Edge

After the main quake, the region experienced a string of aftershocks — the most significant being magnitudes of 4.6, 4.1, and 4.0. While aftershocks are expected in the hours and days following a major earthquake, they’ve added to the anxiety of residents already shaken by the initial tremor.