Istanbul Earthquake: Over 100,000 Stranded After 6.2 Magnitude Tremor Hits

More than 100,000 residents in Istanbul were forced to spend the night outdoors, fearing potential aftershocks, following a powerful 6.2-magnitude earthquake that struck the city. The tremor, which occurred on Wednesday morning, originated in the Marmara Sea, just off the coast of Istanbul.

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya addressed the press on Thursday, revealing that approximately 101,000 individuals had been relocated to temporary shelters, including mosques, schools, and dormitories across the city. To aid those affected, mobile catering units and tents were set up to provide food and basic necessities.

By Thursday morning, authorities had recorded 266 aftershocks since the initial quake. Despite the intensity of the earthquake, Environment, Urbanisation, and Climate Change Minister Murat Kurum assured the public that no residential buildings had collapsed, apart from a derelict structure in the Fatih district.

Health Minister Kemal Memişoğlu reported that 60 individuals were receiving medical attention in hospitals, primarily due to injuries caused by panic or by jumping from buildings during the quake. Memişoğlu confirmed that there had been 236 reported injuries, but fortunately, no fatalities.

This earthquake serves as a reminder of the seismic vulnerability of Istanbul, a city located near major fault lines. As residents continue to cope with the aftershocks, authorities are working diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected population.

For more information about earthquake preparedness in Istanbul, check the U.S. Geological Survey’s official site.