6.1 magnitude earthquake in Balıkesir: Erdoğan and Yerlikaya's statement — assessment work continues in the region
Musavat.com reports that a strong earthquake with a magnitude of 6.1 occurred in the Sındırgı district of Turkey's Balıkesir province. This information was released by the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD).
According to the information, the earthquake's epicenter was located at a depth of 5.99 kilometers. The tremors were recorded at 22:48 local time and were felt in many provinces such as Istanbul, Çanakkale, Tekirdağ, Bursa, İzmir, Manisa, and Aydın.
Immediately after the incident, AFAD and other relevant institutions sent monitoring and assessment teams to the region. Currently, information regarding damages and injuries is being clarified.
Impact of the earthquake and initial information
The underground tremors centered in Sındırgı are reported to have been widely felt especially in the Marmara region. Footage circulating on social media shows several buildings damaged and some structures completely collapsed. Local residents reported strong shaking and hearing noises during the event.
Reaction from President Erdoğan
Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan issued a statement about the earthquake in Balıkesir and called on the public to remain calm:
"I extend my condolences to our citizens affected by the earthquake that occurred in the Sındırgı district of Balıkesir and was also felt in the surrounding areas."
Erdoğan stated that all relevant institutions, led by AFAD, are on site:
"Our AFAD and related institutions are carefully continuing research and inspection work in the field, and we are closely monitoring the process."
Statement from Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya
Turkey's Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya gave an official statement regarding the incident:
"An earthquake with a magnitude of 6.1 occurred in the Sındırgı region of Balıkesir province. All teams of AFAD and related institutions have immediately started field inspections regarding the earthquake that was also felt in surrounding provinces. I extend my best wishes to our citizens affected by the earthquake. May God protect our country and nation from disasters."
According to the minister, all rescue, police, and security forces are operating in a coordinated manner in the region.
Current situation and measures
Currently, AFAD and security forces are assessing the scale of the damage in the region, strengthening security measures, and providing aid to the affected.
There have been brief interruptions in electricity and communication in some areas, but work is underway to restore supply.
An official statement regarding the consequences of the earthquake and possible material damages is expected to be released by AFAD within the next few hours.