Following the 6.2-magnitude earthquake that occurred on April 23, 2025, in Istanbul, seismic activity continues in the Marmara Sea. So, what do experts say about these tremors? How long will the earthquakes continue?
The 6.2-magnitude earthquake on April 23, 2025, shook the Marmara Sea.
According to data from the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) and Kandilli Observatory, tremors are still occurring off the coasts of Marmaraereğlisi (Tekirdağ) and Silivri (Istanbul).
Residents in Istanbul are uneasy but must continue with their daily lives.
Only 12% of the Fault’s Energy Has Been Released – 88% Remains
Istanbul Technical University (ITU) prepared a report on the earthquakes in the Marmara Sea, where the largest reached 6.2 magnitude. According to the report, about 12% of the seismic stress accumulated since 1766 was released by this earthquake.
It was noted that the quake occurred between the Eastern Ridge Northern Segment (Kumburgaz Fault) and the Southern Border Fault of the Silivri Ridge, which last produced an earthquake in May 1766. The location of the 2025 quake aligns with stress changes observed after the 2019 Silivri earthquakes.
Expert Opinions:
Prof. Dr. Tuncay Taymaz: “We’re not telling stories. I do not take comments from non-expert academics seriously. If there’s risk, it’s wise to stay away from buildings for the next 5–6 hours. The April 23 quake was also triggered by a smaller tremor. This could happen again,” he said, raising concerns among Istanbul residents.
Prof. Dr. Süleyman Pampal: More cautious in his remarks, Pampal said the recent 3.7-magnitude quake was an aftershock, but added, “I believe another major earthquake could come. Saying the danger has passed for Istanbul is not appropriate.”
Prof. Dr. Şener Üşümezsoy:
Trying to ease public concern, Üşümezsoy stated that there is no basis for a catastrophic scenario but acknowledged, “There may be another earthquake around magnitude 6. We do not expect a single large rupture resulting in a 7–7.2 magnitude quake.”
Prof. Dr. Şükrü Ersoy: Ersoy stated that aftershocks could continue for up to a month.
SOURCE: ekonomim.com / translated by BTT
