A powerful earthquake struck Turkey this evening, sending shockwaves through popular tourist areas. The quake, estimated at a magnitude of 6.1, hit the Balikesir region, affecting a wide range of western provinces, including Istanbul and Izmir. The tremors, which lasted for an extended period, caused widespread panic as residents rushed to evacuate buildings in search of safety.

The earthquake occurred at 10:48 pm local time in the Sindirgi district of Balikesir province, according to Turkey's Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD). They reported the quake's magnitude at 6.1 with a depth of 5.99 kilometres. Meanwhile, the Kandilli Observatory recorded it at a slightly lower magnitude of 6.0, with a depth of 11.4 kilometres.

Images circulating on social media depict significant destruction, with buildings reduced to rubble in the affected areas. Reports indicate that some structures collapsed, and power outages were experienced. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as people fled into the streets, looking on in horror at the devastation.

In a statement following the earthquake, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan expressed his condolences to those affected. He stated, "I extend my condolences to the citizens affected by the earthquake that occurred in the Sındırgı district of Balıkesir and was also felt in our neighboring provinces. Our AFAD, along with the relevant units, is meticulously continuing inspection and control efforts in the field. We are also closely following the process. May our Lord protect our country and nation from all kinds of disasters."

This earthquake comes two years after a devastating 7.8 magnitude quake in 2023, which resulted in over 53,000 fatalities in Turkey and thousands of building collapses across 11 provinces. The region is known for its seismic activity, sitting atop major fault lines, making earthquakes a frequent occurrence.

As emergency services assess the damage, there have been no immediate reports of casualties. However, the proximity of the quake to densely populated cities like Istanbul, which has a population of 15 million, raises concerns about potential impacts as rescue and recovery efforts continue.