6.2 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Istanbul, 236 Injured

A 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck near Istanbul, Turkey, on April 23, 2025, causing widespread panic and injuring over 350 people, mostly due to falls and panic attacks as residents rushed into the streets. Although there were no immediate reports of fatalities, several buildings sustained damage or partial collapse, and authorities recorded numerous aftershocks, prompting many residents to avoid returning indoors. The quake occurred on a public holiday, intensifying distress as citizens recalled Turkey's recent history of devastating earthquakes. Experts, including seismologist Prof. Dr. Naci Görür, warned that this event was not the anticipated major quake along the North Anatolian Fault and urged urgent action to improve Istanbul’s seismic preparedness, citing the city’s high population density and vulnerable infrastructure. Emergency shelters were opened in sports halls and mosques, and schools were closed for additional days as a precaution. The incident has renewed concerns over Istanbul’s risk for a much stronger earthquake and the adequacy of current disaster response measures.