6.1 Magnitude Earthquake Damages Buildings Sindirgi, Turkey No Deaths Reported

A 6.1 magnitude earthquake struck the town of Sindirgi in Turkey's Balikesir province, causing three previously damaged and unoccupied buildings to collapse and injuring 22 people, mostly due to panic-related falls. The quake occurred around 10:48 pm local time at a shallow depth of approximately 6 kilometers and was felt as far as Istanbul, Izmir, Bursa, and other surrounding provinces, triggering widespread panic and prompting residents to flee their homes. This event is part of ongoing seismic activity in the region, which experienced a similar 6.1 magnitude quake in August that resulted in one death and multiple injuries. Aftershocks followed, including a notable 4.2 magnitude tremor, with authorities warning that aftershocks could continue. Turkey, situated on several active fault lines, remains vulnerable to earthquakes, highlighted by the devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake in February 2023 that killed over 53,000 people. Government agencies, including AFAD, are actively inspecting affected areas and monitoring the situation closely to assess damage and ensure public safety.