Abandoned 3-story building collapses after 6.2 magnitude earthquake in Istanbul

An abandoned three-story building collapsed in Istanbul’s Fatih district on Wednesday following a 6.2 magnitude earthquake that struck the city and was strongly felt across much of the Marmara region, according to Turkish media reports.

The tremor, which sent shockwaves through several districts in Istanbul as well as surrounding provinces, prompted the immediate deployment of firefighting and emergency response teams to the affected area.

Preliminary reports indicated that the collapsed structure was unoccupied at the time of the incident and no casualties have been reported. Search and security operations are ongoing in the vicinity as authorities continue assessments.

No major damage after 6.2 tremor in Istanbul, authorities confirm

Meanwhile, no major damage or loss of life has been reported following the 6.2 magnitude earthquake in Istanbul, initial findings by Turkish officials confirmed.

In a statement, the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) said, “All relevant institutions are on alert and field inspections are underway.”

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya also issued a message, stating: “Our teams from AFAD and all relevant institutions have initiated field assessments following the earthquake, which was felt in surrounding provinces as well. I extend my best wishes to all citizens affected by the tremor.”

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan conveyed his concern on social media, saying, “I extend my best wishes to our citizens. We are closely monitoring developments.”

The Istanbul Governor’s Office urged the public to remain calm and avoid unnecessary travel by car to prevent congestion. The statement advised residents not to overload mobile networks and to stay away from buildings that may have been structurally compromised, emphasizing that citizens should remain calm and avoid approaching damaged structures.