A multitude of over 200 aftershocks hit the western region of Turkey
In a shocking turn of events, a powerful earthquake hit the town of Sındırgı in Balikesir Province, Turkey, on August 10, 2025. The earthquake, measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale, has left a trail of destruction in its wake.
The earthquake was followed by several aftershocks, with the most notable aftershock measuring 4.6. Due to the continuing seismic activity and the unstable condition of buildings, authorities have repeatedly urged caution and advised people not to enter compromised structures.
The earthquake struck at 19:53 local time, causing severe damage including the collapse of about a dozen buildings, flattening a total of 16 structures, and the destruction of two mosque minarets. Tragically, one elderly woman lost her life due to her injuries. Rescue teams have been working tirelessly to pull survivors from the rubble.
A total of 29 people were injured in the earthquake. Four of them are still receiving hospital treatment. According to reports, people spent the night outdoors or in their cars due to fear.
The shallow depth of the earthquake, approximately 10-11 km, intensified its destructive effects on surface structures. Around 729 buildings were severely damaged, and 61 were slightly damaged in the affected area.
About 1,100 search and rescue personnel and 50 damage assessment teams have been deployed to the area. The Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) is overseeing the operations.
Turkey, known for its numerous fault lines, has been hit by another devastating earthquake. Just recently, on February 6, 2023, two earthquakes of magnitudes 7.7 and 7.6 struck the southeastern Turkish province of Hatay, resulting in over 53,000 fatalities in Turkey alone and thousands more in neighboring Syria. The megacity of Istanbul, particularly earthquake-prone, was also affected.
Residents of Balikesir are advised to stay out of damaged buildings for safety. The situation remains tense with ongoing aftershocks, the strongest being magnitude 4.6. Our thoughts are with those affected by this disaster.
[1] Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) report [2] Local news reports [3] Social media updates [4] Damage assessment reports [5] Geological Survey reports
- The devastating earthquake in Sındırgı, Turkey, on August 10, 2025, has disrupted general-news discussions, as politics and crime-and-justice affairs have temporarily taken a backseat, with food distribution becoming a pressing concern for the affected population.
- Concurrently, the tragedy has sparked heated debates on social media platforms, with some criticizing the preparedness and response of authorities, and others expressing their impatience for food and emergency supplies, highlighting the delicate balance between politics and the welfare of the people.
