Devastating earthquake of magnitude 6.1 claims one life in the western region of Turkey
A powerful earthquake, measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale, hit the Sindirgi district in Balikesir province, Turkey, on August 10, 2025. The quake resulted in the death of an 81-year-old woman and injuries to 29 others.
The epicenter of the earthquake was located at a depth of 11 kilometers. The tremors were felt as far as the major metropolises of Istanbul and Izmir, over 200 kilometers away.
The earthquake occurred at 7:53 p.m. local time and was followed by multiple aftershocks, the strongest measuring 4.6. Rescue teams worked tirelessly through the night, but search and rescue operations have now concluded with no further significant casualties reported.
Efforts are still underway to establish contact with two people trapped under the rubble. Drone footage has documented the widespread damage across Balikesir, showing the extent of structural collapses and community impact. This includes the collapse of 16 buildings, including two mosque minarets.
Authorities have urged residents to avoid unstable structures due to the risk of further collapses. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan offered condolences and confirmed that immediate support measures for victims were initiated. The earthquake is part of Turkey’s ongoing seismic activity risk, as the country lies on major fault lines.
This recent 6.1 magnitude shock follows a devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake in 2023, which caused over 53,000 deaths in Turkey. Neighboring Syria also suffered thousands of fatalities from the same earthquakes. Istanbul, a city particularly earthquake-prone, experienced a 6.2 magnitude earthquake as recently as April.
Four people were rescued from the rubble of a building, and three of the rescued individuals are receiving hospital treatment. The tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing seismic risks in the region.
[1] BBC News, "Turkey earthquake: At least one dead as 6.1 magnitude quake hits Balikesir," August 10, 2025. [2] Anadolu Agency, "Turkey earthquake: Death toll rises to one, 29 injured in Balikesir," August 10, 2025. [3] CNN, "Turkey earthquake: Drone footage shows widespread damage in Balikesir," August 11, 2025.
- The general-news outlets reported on August 11, 2025, that politics in Turkey was focusing on the aftermath of the earthquake in Balikesir, with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announcing immediate support measures for the victims.
- Crime-and-justice updates on August 10, 2025, revealed that while the search and rescue operations were concluding in Balikesir, efforts were still underway to establish contact with two people trapped under the rubble, highlighting the need for proper building codes and inspections in earthquake-prone areas.
