Magnitude 6.1 Earthquake Injures 22, Collapses Buildings in Western Turkiye

A 6.1-magnitude earthquake struck western Türkiye's Balikesir province, centered near the town of Sindirgi, causing panic and structural damage including the collapse of at least three previously weakened buildings and a shop. The quake, which occurred at around 10:48 p.m. local time and was followed by aftershocks, was felt across several provinces including Istanbul, Bursa, Manisa, and Izmir. While no fatalities have been reported, 22 people were injured mainly due to panic-related falls, prompting authorities to open shelters for residents afraid to return home amid fears of further tremors. This event follows a similar magnitude quake in August that resulted in one death and numerous injuries, highlighting the region's frequent seismic activity due to its location on major fault lines. Emergency services remain on high alert, with officials continuing damage assessments and urging caution as aftershocks could further impact vulnerable structures. Türkiye has a history of devastating earthquakes, including a 7.8-magnitude quake in 2023 that caused massive loss of life and widespread destruction.