Istanbul earthquake: 6.2 magnitude tremor sends residents into streets across Türkiye
People evacuate buildings in panic and contact their loved ones after a 6.2 magnitude earthquake strikes Istanbul, Türkiye with the epicenter in Silivri district, on April 23, 2025. (AA Photo)
A 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Silivri, near Istanbul, at 12:49 p.m. local time on April 23, sending residents across the city and surrounding regions into the streets.
The earthquake, with its epicenter in the Marmara Sea at a depth of 6.92 kilometers (4.29 miles), was felt strongly in Istanbul and neighboring provinces, including Bursa, Kocaeli, Sakarya, and Duzce, according to Türkiye’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD).
Mass evacuations across Istanbul
In districts such as Bagcilar, Besiktas, and Taksim, residents quickly evacuated homes, businesses, and cafes. Large crowds gathered in public parks and open spaces, including Bagcilar National Garden and Bebek shoreline.
At Istanbul Airport, passengers and staff temporarily exited the terminal buildings due to the tremor. Workers in hotels and offices around Taksim Square were seen waiting in the open air, avoiding nearby structures as a precaution.
Surrounding provinces feel the shock
In Kocaeli, Sakarya, and Duzce, residents also evacuated buildings. According to Duzce Governor Selcuk Aslan, no emergency calls reporting serious damage had been received, and AFAD field teams began site inspections.
Sakarya’s provincial administration confirmed that while the earthquake caused temporary concern, there were no reports of disruptions or damage. Similarly, Kocaeli officials stated that no negative developments had been identified, and ground assessments were ongoing.
Official statements and safety measures
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan was briefed on the situation by the ministers of interior, health, environment and urbanization, and the Istanbul governor and AFAD director.
He issued directives to ensure swift response and coordination.
AFAD reported ongoing aftershocks and confirmed that emergency response protocols under Türkiye’s Disaster Response Plan (TAMP) were active.
They warned against misinformation on social media, urging citizens to follow only official updates.
The Istanbul Governor’s Office reported that “as of now, no destruction reports have been received,” and field inspections by relevant units were continuing.
Safety reminders from authorities
The presidency’s communications directorate shared guidance for earthquake safety, emphasizing not to use elevators, avoid balconies and windows, and to shelter under sturdy furniture to form a “life triangle.”
They also cautioned against using lighters or electrical switches during tremors.
Transport Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu confirmed that initial inspections of roads, airports, railways, and metro systems revealed no damage.
Field crews remain active in monitoring infrastructure.
Calm urged as monitoring continues
Despite the widespread panic, no major injuries or structural collapses have been reported. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and assess aftershocks.
Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IMM) stated that there had been “no serious incident information” thus far, and emergency coordination teams had convened at AKOM.
