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A 5.0 magnitude earthquake hit the Marmara region on Thursday afternoon, with its epicenter reported in Tekirdag.
The tremor triggered panic in several districts of Istanbul, prompting many residents to rush into the streets and open areas.
On both the European and Asian sides, people were seen leaving homes and workplaces in the immediate aftermath.
The Istanbul Governor’s Office said there have been no reports of damage so far following the quake.
In a statement shared on X, officials noted that field teams have begun inspections across the city and advised residents “not to approach structures that might be damaged” and to follow updates from authorized institutions rather than unverified sources.
The Istanbul Governor’s Office later announced that 4 buildings across several districts have been reported with possible damage, and inspection teams have been sent to those locations.
As of 4:40 p.m., officials reported no earthquake-related injuries requiring hospital treatment. However, 12 people contacted emergency services due to panic attacks or fear, and five people reported sprains and similar minor injuries caused by panic.
Authorities reminded residents to report any structural damage to the 112 Emergency Call Center and to stay clear of potentially unsafe buildings.
Türkiye’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) said in a statement that there were no reports of adverse incidents but added that field inspections are continuing in affected areas.
“After the 5.0 magnitude earthquake that occurred in the Marmara Sea, off the coast of Marmaraereglisi in Tekirdag at 14:55, there is currently no negative situation," AFAD said. "Field scanning work continues. We extend our best wishes to our citizens affected by the quake.”
In many schools, teachers escorted students outside, while anxious parents hurried to pick up their children. Large groups gathered in courtyards, parking lots and open spaces as aftershocks were feared. At the Bakirkoy Courthouse, people exited the building and waited in the garden area.
Husnu Sahin, who lives in the Fatih district of Istanbul, told Anadolu Agency: “When we felt it, we ran outside. It hit strongly from below. Of course, there is fear. We live in an earthquake zone and do not really know what to do.”
The Tekirdag Governor’s Office said no emergency calls reporting damage or injuries had been received so far.
Citing AFAD data, the statement confirmed that the quake’s epicenter was in the Marmara Sea near the district and that field teams have begun surveying the area.
“Up to this moment, our 112 Emergency Call Center has not received any adverse reports,” the governor’s office said, urging residents to notify the center if they encounter structural problems or other hazards. The statement also extended well-wishes to those affected by the tremor.
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said AFAD and all relevant institutions have deployed teams to the field following the 5.0 magnitude earthquake that struck off the coast of Marmaraereglisi in Tekirdag.
The minister noted that the tremor was felt in Istanbul and nearby provinces and that inspections began immediately after the quake.
Yerlikaya also extended his well-wishes to those affected through his social media post.
Istanbul’s airports have reported no disruptions to air traffic following the 5.0 magnitude earthquake.
Sabiha Gokcen International Airport’s operator HEAS said in a statement on social media that it had extended its well-wishes to citizens and carried out terminal, service building, apron, taxiway and runway checks, finding no damage or safety concerns.
“There are no issues preventing airport operations, and flights are continuing without interruption,” the statement said.
Officials also confirmed that operations at Istanbul Airport were not affected by the tremor.
Road traffic in Istanbul rose sharply after the 5.0 magnitude earthquake, reaching 67% congestion citywide, according to data from the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality’s Cep Trafik application.
Many residents left their homes, schools and workplaces by car, causing heavy traffic on main arteries, side streets and major highways:
Authorities advised drivers to remain cautious, follow traffic updates and avoid unnecessary travel while congestion remains high after the quake.
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