Balikesir, Turkey struck by 6.1 magnitude earthquake
A strong earthquake of magnitude 6.1 struck the Sındırgı district of Balıkesir province, Turkey, on August 10, 2025, at 19:53 local time, causing significant damage and casualties.
One person died (an 81-year-old rescued from rubble) and at least 29 others were injured.
At least 16 buildings collapsed, including homes and two mosque minarets.
The collapse trapped several people; rescue teams successfully freed those in urgent danger.
Most of the destroyed structures were reported to be old or derelict.
The epicenter was in Sındırgı; nearby Gölcük and Manisa also reported damage.
The earthquake was felt across several provinces, including Manisa, Izmir, Usak, Bursa, and as far as Istanbul (about 200 km south).
The tremors triggered multiple aftershocks, the largest registering 4.6 magnitude.
Authorities activated Turkey’s national disaster plan (TAMP), dispatching search and rescue teams from several provinces.
Residents were advised to avoid entering damaged buildings due to aftershocks and the risk of further collapse.
Balıkesir is located near the western end of the North Anatolian Fault Zone, making it prone to seismic activity.
This event is a reminder of Turkey’s seismic vulnerability, notably after the devastating 2023 earthquakes in southeastern Turkey and northern Syria.
Authorities have concluded search and rescue efforts, confirming no further casualties or major damage at this time, but continued monitoring and field surveys are underway.
