Following a 6.2 magnitude earthquake that shook Istanbul, Türkiye's most populous city, and adjacent regions, millions experienced a tense night.

While no fatalities were reported, over 230 people sustained injuries, primarily due to panic-induced falls as they jumped from buildings.

Authorities have announced that schools in affected areas will remain closed through Friday to allow for structural safety assessments. Meanwhile, aftershocks persisted overnight, with most measuring below 3.0 on the Richter scale. The strongest aftershock, recorded at 4.2 magnitude, struck in the early hours, further rattling an already tense population.

Thousands of residents opted to spend the night in parks and open spaces, lighting fires to stay warm as temperatures dropped. Emergency services and municipal teams distributed blankets and essential supplies to those staying outdoors. Officials have urged residents to avoid returning to potentially unsafe buildings until comprehensive inspections are completed.

The earthquake reignited fears stemming from the twin earthquakes in February 2023, which devastated southwestern Turkey and parts of Syria. Those quakes, measuring 7.8 and 7.7 in magnitude, claimed nearly 60,000 lives and left a lasting impact on the region’s collective psyche.

Seismologists caution that Istanbul sits near major fault lines capable of producing even larger and more destructive earthquakes. "This earthquake serves as a stark reminder of Istanbul’s seismic vulnerability," said Dr. Mehmet Yılmaz, a prominent geologist. He emphasized the urgent need for strengthening urban infrastructure and enforcing strict building codes to mitigate risks.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan extended his well wishes to those affected and assured that emergency response teams were actively addressing the situation. “AFAD, the Ministry of Health, and all relevant units are on high alert. Thankfully, there have been no major casualties, but our vigilance remains unwavering,” Erdoğan stated.

Local authorities have renewed calls for disaster preparedness, encouraging citizens to participate in earthquake drills and review safety plans. Istanbul’s Disaster Coordination Center is conducting inspections to assess the structural integrity of buildings in affected neighborhoods.

The earthquake has once again underscored Istanbul’s seismic risks, highlighting the critical importance of preparedness in a city of over 15 million residents. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as the region braces for the possibility of further aftershocks. (ILKHA)