Geologist Naci Görür issues alarming warning: These faults can generate earthquakes of magnitude 7 and above

Professor Dr. Naci Görür, a faculty member and geologist at Istanbul Technical University, stated that the faults around Izmir had the potential to generate earthquakes of magnitude 7 and above, emphasizing the urgent need to identify the characteristics of these faults. Görür made these remarks at the “Earthquake and Resilient Cities” discussion organized by Izmir Metropolitan Municipality at the Ahmet Adnan Saygun Art Center.

In his speech, Görür mentioned that simultaneous efforts were underway to make Izmir earthquake-resistant, expressing hope that once completed, these efforts would make the city prepared for earthquakes. He also criticized the urban development in Turkey, stating that cities had grown in a haphazard manner driven by squatter settlements and profit motives, leading to significant mistakes.

Görür emphasized that with today’s science and technology, it was possible to create earthquake-resistant cities. He criticized the lack of action despite warnings prior to earthquakes centered around Kahramanmaraş. He also stressed that both the political would and the persistent demand from the public were necessary to build resilient cities.

Noting Izmir’s history of major earthquakes, Görür pointed out the presence of faults not only in the sea but also throughout the city. He warned that each of these faults had the potential to generate earthquakes of magnitude 7 and above, which could paralyze Izmir. Görür highlighted the danger posed by these faults, which remain dormant without their characteristics being fully understood. He referenced the recent earthquake near Samos, which occurred 70-80 kilometers away, underscoring the potential devastation if an earthquake were to strike directly under Izmir.

Görür mentioned that universities were conducting analyses of faults in Izmir and stressed the importance of evaluating the city’s topography. He emphasized that decisions regarding urban planning should be based on this data and that it was not sufficient to only transform risky buildings; instead, the entire infrastructure of cities must undergo transformation.