Strong quake of magnitude 6.1 shakes western Turkey
On August 10, 2025, a powerful earthquake shook the municipality of Sindirgi in Balıkesir province, Turkey. The earthquake, measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale and occurring at a depth of approximately 10 km, caused significant damage locally, with at least 16 buildings collapsing and over 700 buildings being severely affected.
The epicentre of the earthquake was near Sindirgi, around 10 km south-southwest of Bigadiç. Tragically, an 81- or 82-year-old person died after being rescued from a collapsed building. Initial reports suggest that at least 29 to 52 people were injured, some of whom were hospitalised.
The effects of the earthquake were felt as far as Istanbul, approximately 340 km away, and Izmir, causing noticeable shaking but no major reported damage or casualties in these cities. Multiple aftershocks followed, with the strongest reportedly at magnitude 4.6.
A sinkhole appeared near Odunpazarı in Eskişehir province, believed to be related to the earthquake's effects. Rescue operations were swiftly deployed, with around 1,100 personnel and 50 damage assessment teams working diligently to assess and address the situation.
The owner and contractor of the building that resulted in the fatality have been detained on suspicion of negligence. Most of the collapsed or damaged buildings were uninhabited or abandoned.
Authorities and officials, including the Interior Minister and President Erdogan, have made official statements emphasising rescue efforts and assistance to victims. The tremor was felt up to 200 km away, including Istanbul and surrounding regions, but no fatalities or severe damage were reported in these areas.
In summary, the Sindirgi earthquake caused localized severe damage and one confirmed death, triggered multiple aftershocks, and was strongly felt in Istanbul and Izmir without notable structural damage in those metropolitan areas. Rescue and recovery efforts are ongoing with caution advised due to unstable buildings.
The rescue efforts have been expanded to nearby environmental-science departments and other scientific fields, seeking crucial data about the potential long-term environmental impacts of the earthquake on the region.
As the weather remains unpredictable, authorities are urging residents in the affected areas to stay vigilant and heed any warnings regarding possible adverse weather conditions that may aggravate the situation further.
