6.1 magnitude earthquake in Türkiye: over 20 injured and buildings collapsed (in the area already hit by the August earthquake)

A new night of fear for western Turkey, where a 6.1 magnitude earthquake shook the province of Balikesir. The epicenter was located in the town of Sindirgi, already hit in August by an earthquake of equal intensity. The tremor, recorded at 10.48pm local time, at a depth of approximately 6 kilometres, was also distinctly felt in Istanbul, Bursa, Manisa and Izmir. According to data released by the national emergency management agency AFAD, the earthquake was followed by several aftershocks, which kept tensions high for hours.

Collapses and injuries: the provisional toll

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed that at least three unoccupied buildings and a two-storey shop collapsed in the center of Sindirgi. The structures were already compromised by a previous earthquake and were unoccupied. Fortunately, no victims were recorded, but 22 people were injured due to falls and panic attacks also due to the repetition of the seismic phenomena but the checks are still ongoing.

Night outdoors in the rain

The population, frightened by possible new tremors, preferred to remain outdoors. Many spent the night in the squares or in car parks, under a light rain which made the situation more difficult. The authorities have decided to open mosques, schools and sports halls to offer temporary shelter to residents.

A land that never stops shaking

Turkey sits on major seismic faults, which is why earthquakes are frequent. The Sindirgi event comes after months of milder tremors in the Balikesir region. Only two years ago, in 2023, a devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake caused over 53,000 deaths in the south of the country, marking one of the most serious tragedies in its recent history. Today, the hope is that the earth will stop shaking as soon as possible to provide relief to the population.

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