A sequence of three consecutive earthquakes rattled Istanbul and its surrounding areas, sending waves of panic across Turkey’s most populous city. Among the tremors, the strongest measured 6.2 on the Richter scale and originated in the Marmara Sea, off the western coast of Istanbul. The tremors were strongly felt across several neighboring provinces, prompting residents to rush out of buildings and gather in open spaces.

According to Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya, the most intense quake struck the Silivri area in the Marmara Sea. Although there were no immediate reports of casualties or major structural damage, emergency authorities have been dispatched to monitor the situation and assess potential risks.

Turkey's Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) confirmed that all three tremors occurred within a short span of time, and all were concentrated near Istanbul and the coastal regions of the Marmara Sea. The first quake was recorded at a magnitude of 3.9, followed by the 6.2-magnitude event, and then a third measuring 4.4.

With a population of approximately 16 million, Istanbul is highly vulnerable to seismic activity due to its proximity to active fault lines. The sudden and successive nature of the quakes left many residents shocked and fearful, recalling the country’s tragic history of devastating earthquakes.

This event also brought back memories of the catastrophic earthquake in 2023, when a powerful 7.8-magnitude tremor struck near the Turkey-Syria border. That disaster caused massive destruction across southeastern Turkey, killing at least 53,537 people and leaving tens of thousands injured or displaced.

Authorities continue to monitor aftershocks and have urged residents to remain alert but calm. Measures are being taken to ensure the safety of those in high-risk areas, and geological experts are closely studying the recent seismic activity for any signs of further escalation.