Wed Apr 23 11:26:47 UTC 2025: **Istanbul Hit by 6.2 Magnitude Earthquake; No Major Damage Reported**
Istanbul, Turkey – A 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck the Marmara Sea near Istanbul on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, sending residents scrambling into the streets. The quake, which struck at 12:49 p.m. local time (0949 GMT), was followed by at least 50 aftershocks, the largest measuring 5.9 magnitude. The tremors were felt across the city and as far away as Bulgaria.
Initial reports from city authorities and the regional governor’s office indicate no major damage or casualties. While buildings shook and panicked residents poured into the streets, there have been no confirmed reports of collapsed structures or serious injuries. Authorities are urging citizens to avoid potentially damaged buildings. The Istanbul municipality reported no serious incidents following the earthquake.
The earthquake’s impact was widespread, causing significant alarm among Istanbul’s 16 million residents. Eyewitnesses described feeling the ground shake violently and rushing outside in fear. Further assessments are underway to determine the full extent of the earthquake’s effects.
First Piper 