According to the reports on 11 August, on 10 August, a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 6.1 struck northwestern Turkey’s Balikesir province at around 7:53 p.m. (local time). The tremor was felt across several provinces, including Istanbul, the country’s largest city. According to Turkey’s AFAD disaster management authority, the quake occurred at a depth of 11 km, while the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) measured it at magnitude 6.19 and a depth of 10 km.
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed that one person was killed and 29 others were injured as a result of the earthquake. The victim, an 81-year-old, died after being rescued from the rubble by emergency teams. Sixteen buildings collapsed during the quake, causing significant damage in affected areas.
Rescue teams were swiftly deployed to the impacted zones, working through the evening to search for survivors and assess structural damage. Authorities confirmed that search and rescue operations have now concluded, and no additional casualties or major destruction have been identified beyond the initial reports.
The earthquake serves as another reminder of Turkey’s vulnerability to seismic activity, given its location on major fault lines. While this event caused limited casualties compared to past disasters, it prompted concern among residents who felt the tremors in multiple provinces. Officials continue to monitor the situation, ensuring that those affected receive necessary support and assistance.
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Powerful earthquake in Turkey kills one and injures dozens in Balikesir province
