Multiple aftershocks occur in western Turkey, causing further destruction
================================================================
On August 10, 2025, a 6.1 magnitude earthquake struck the Sındırgı district of Balıkesir, Turkey. The earthquake caused significant damage, including the collapse of 16 buildings, the destruction of mosque minarets, and widespread damage to over 700 buildings.
The epicenter of the earthquake was located in the district of Sindirgi, and one person was tragically killed as a result. Rescue operations, involving approximately 1,100 search and rescue personnel and damage assessment teams, were initiated immediately. Although the rescue efforts have concluded as of August 11, four individuals are still being treated in the hospital for injuries sustained during the quake.
Following the main quake, multiple aftershocks were recorded, with the strongest measuring magnitude 4.6. Authorities have warned residents to avoid unstable structures due to the ongoing risk of collapses. While specific forecasts for aftershocks are not detailed in the available sources, aftershocks of varying strengths typically continue for days to weeks following a 6.1 magnitude event. Residents and authorities remain alert for further tremors.
In addition to the damage in Balıkesir, the earthquake extended its impact to nearby provinces. A sinkhole was reported in rural Eskişehir Province, and hospitalizations due to injuries or panic were recorded. The building owner related to the fatality has been detained on negligence charges.
It's important to note that Balıkesir is not the only Turkish province prone to earthquakes. Turkey has numerous fault lines, making it particularly earthquake-prone. In fact, on February 6, 2023, two devastating earthquakes of magnitudes 7.7 and 7.6 occurred in the southeastern Turkish province of Hatay, which resulted in a higher number of casualties than the August 10 earthquake, with thousands killed compared to one. Thousands of deaths were also reported in the neighboring country of Syria due to the February 6 earthquakes.
Despite the potential for earthquakes, life in major cities like Istanbul and Izmir continued relatively unaffected by the August 10 earthquake. While the quake was felt over 200 kilometers away, it was not as intensely as the February 6 earthquakes, which were felt in these cities. Media outlets reported that many people spent the night outdoors or in their cars due to fear following the earthquake.
The Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) provided information about the earthquake, and Turkey, as always, is working diligently to address the aftermath and ensure the safety of its citizens.
[1] AFAD (2025). Earthquake Information. Retrieved from https://www.afad.gov.tr/tr/degerlendirme-ve-izleme/deprem-bilgileri
[2] Anadolu Agency (2025). Balıkesir Earthquake: Rescue Operations Completed. Retrieved from https://www.aa.com.tr/tr/turkiye/balikesir-depremi-cezayir-i-ceza-i-bitirildi/2841995
[3] CNN Turkey (2025). One Dead, Over 20 Injured in Balıkesir Earthquake. Retrieved from https://edition.cnn.com/2025/08/10/world/turkey-earthquake-sindirgi-intl/index.html
The general-news about the Balıkesir earthquake also reported instances of crime and justice, as the building owner related to the fatality has been detained on negligence charges. Additionally, weather updates suggested that residents in nearby provinces, such as Eskişehir, experienced further impacts from the earthquake, with a sinkhole being reported.
