Turkey experienced a powerful earthquake late Sunday night, shaking its northwestern Balıkesir province. The tremors, recorded at a magnitude of 6.1, caused significant structural damage and triggered several aftershocks. Early reports confirm that around a dozen buildings collapsed in the affected areas, leaving residents in shock and prompting large-scale rescue operations.

Epicenter in Sındırgı, Tremors Felt in Istanbul

According to the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority of Turkey (AFAD), the earthquake’s epicenter was near the town of Sındırgı in Balıkesir province. The tremors were strong enough to be felt nearly 200 kilometers away in Istanbul, home to more than 16 million people.

Residents in Istanbul reported feeling prolonged shaking, though no major damage was immediately reported in the city. The distance did little to reduce the sense of fear, as many residents rushed outdoors in precaution.

Immediate Damage in Sındırgı and Nearby Villages

Sındırgı Mayor Serkan Sak confirmed that multiple buildings collapsed in the town following the earthquake. Rescue teams quickly mobilized, managing to pull four people to safety from the debris. Efforts are still underway to rescue at least two others believed to be trapped under the rubble.

In the nearby village of Gölcük, several houses were destroyed. One mosque also suffered severe damage, with its minaret collapsing during the tremors. The incident has left the small community reeling, as many structures in rural areas are not designed to withstand strong earthquakes.

Aftershocks Add to the Danger

AFAD reported that multiple aftershocks followed the main earthquake, adding to the instability of damaged structures. One aftershock reached a magnitude of 4.6, strong enough to cause additional harm to already weakened buildings.

Authorities have issued urgent warnings to residents, advising them to stay away from damaged structures until they are inspected and declared safe. Engineers are now conducting rapid assessments to identify buildings at risk of further collapse.

Emergency Response and Rescue Efforts

Rescue operations began within minutes of the quake. Search and rescue teams, along with medical personnel, were dispatched to the affected areas. Specialized equipment was brought in to help locate and extract individuals trapped beneath the debris.

Local hospitals have been placed on high alert, prepared to receive and treat injured victims. Authorities have also set up temporary shelters for residents displaced from their homes. The Turkish Red Crescent has been distributing food, blankets, and other essentials to those affected.

Memories of the 2023 Earthquake Still Fresh

Turkey lies on several active fault lines, making it highly prone to earthquakes. The country has experienced numerous destructive quakes over the decades. In February 2023, a massive 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck southern Turkey and parts of Syria, killing more than 53,000 people.

That disaster left deep scars on the nation’s memory. Many of those who felt Sunday’s earthquake recalled the fear and chaos of 2023, when thousands of buildings were reduced to rubble. The government’s current response aims to prevent a similar humanitarian tragedy.

Structural Vulnerability in Earthquake-Prone Regions

The collapse of buildings in Sındırgı and Gölcük has reignited discussions about structural safety in Turkey’s earthquake-prone regions. While newer buildings are constructed under stricter seismic safety codes, many older structures remain highly vulnerable.

Local officials have stressed the need for urgent evaluations and retrofitting of buildings, especially in rural areas where construction standards may have been less rigorous. Without these measures, experts warn that even moderate earthquakes can lead to significant loss of life and property.

Residents Describe the Night of the Quake

Survivors have shared harrowing accounts of the moment the earthquake struck. Many described being woken by a loud rumbling sound, followed by violent shaking that lasted for several seconds. Some residents ran outside barefoot, leaving their belongings behind in a rush to reach open spaces.

In Gölcük, villagers recounted hearing the sound of the mosque minaret collapsing. Others described the panic as dust and debris filled the air while people searched for loved ones in the darkness.

Precautionary Measures and Government Advice

Authorities are urging residents to remain cautious in the coming days. Aftershocks are likely to continue, and damaged buildings could collapse without warning. People are being advised to sleep in safe areas, avoid entering cracked or leaning structures, and keep emergency kits within reach.

Disaster preparedness campaigns, which intensified after the 2023 earthquake, are being reinforced in the affected provinces. Officials are reminding citizens to familiarize themselves with evacuation routes and basic first aid measures.

International Reactions and Offers of Help

While this earthquake was less destructive than the 2023 disaster, it has still drawn international attention. Neighboring countries and humanitarian organizations have expressed readiness to provide assistance if required.

Messages of solidarity have come from several governments, reaffirming their willingness to support Turkey in dealing with natural disasters. International rescue agencies have offered to deploy specialist teams and equipment should the situation worsen.

The Road to Recovery

Although the full extent of damage is still being assessed, it is clear that rebuilding will take time. For residents of Sındırgı, Gölcük, and other affected areas, the immediate concern is restoring a sense of safety.

Psychological support services are being arranged for those traumatized by the disaster. Many survivors are still in shock, especially those who lost homes or witnessed buildings collapse.

Long-term recovery will involve reconstructing homes, repairing infrastructure, and restoring community life. The Turkish government is expected to announce relief packages to assist affected families.

The 6.1 magnitude earthquake in Balıkesir province serves as another reminder of Turkey’s seismic vulnerability. Despite advances in construction technology and disaster response, the risk remains ever-present.

This latest quake has caused structural damage, displaced families, and revived memories of past tragedies. As rescue teams work tirelessly and aftershocks continue, the priority remains saving lives and ensuring the safety of survivors.