Resilience in Crisis: Western Turkey Faces Another Earthquake

A powerful earthquake measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale struck western Turkey late Monday, causing the collapse of several structures previously compromised by earlier seismic activity. Despite the extensive damage, there have been no reported casualties as authorities continue to conduct assessments.

The epicenter of the earthquake was located near the town of Sindirgi in Balikesir province, as confirmed by the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD). Striking at 10:48 pm local time, the quake was followed by a series of aftershocks and was felt across multiple provinces, including Istanbul, Bursa, Manisa, and Izmir.

While three unoccupied buildings and a two-story shop collapsed, only two individuals required hospitalization due to panic-related injuries. Many residents have chosen to remain outdoors, fearing further aftershocks. Sindirgi had experienced a similar quake in August that resulted in one fatality. Turkey's susceptibility to earthquakes is exacerbated by its position along major fault lines.