Istanbul Shaken by 6.2 Magnitude Earthquake

Istanbul has been hit by a 6.2 magnitude earthquake, causing significant tremors throughout Turkey's largest city, with residents fleeing buildings amidst concerns for their safety.

Istanbul experienced a 6.2 magnitude earthquake on Wednesday, sending shockwaves through the metropolis and prompting immediate evacuations from apartment buildings. According to Turkey's emergency services, the earthquake occurred at 12:49 PM local time (09:49 GMT) and was registered at a depth of approximately 6.92 km (4.3 miles). The epicenter was located in the Marmara Sea, specifically in the Silivri region, around 80 km (50 miles) west of Istanbul.

While the full extent of the quake's impact is still being assessed, reports indicate that residents felt it as one of the strongest tremors in recent years. As a result, many individuals found lamps and other items toppling in their homes. Turkish officials noted that after the initial quake, two smaller aftershocks followed.

This earthquake comes on the heels of the devastation wrought by two massive quakes earlier this year in southern Turkey, which resulted in the tragic loss of over 55,000 lives. Istanbul, a city inhabited by 16 million people, is situated just 20 km north of the North Anatolian Fault Line, which is known for its seismic activity.

Updates on the situation are ongoing, with details emerging as authorities work to assess damage and ensure public safety. For those seeking timely information, the latest alerts can be followed on social media platforms and dedicated news apps.