Daijiworld Media Network - Simav

Simav, Sep 28: A 5.4-magnitude earthquake struck northwestern Turkey on Sunday afternoon, prompting panic among residents and sending people rushing into open spaces. The quake was centered in Simav, a town in Kütahya province, and occurred at a shallow depth of 8 kilometers (5 miles), according to the Turkish Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD).

The tremor hit at 12:59 p.m. local time (3:29 p.m. IST) and was quickly followed by a 4.0-magnitude aftershock, authorities confirmed. So far, no casualties have been reported, though emergency services remain on alert.

Tremors Felt in Istanbul

Reports indicate that the quake was felt in Istanbul, Turkey’s largest city, located about 100 kilometers (62 miles) to the north of the epicenter. Television footage showed concerned residents in Kütahya gathered in parks and open areas, wary of potential aftershocks.

Recent Seismic Activity in the Region

This is the latest in a series of earthquakes to hit the region in recent months. In August, a 6.1-magnitude quake struck Sindirgi in the neighboring Balikesir province, resulting in one death and dozens of injuries. The area has since experienced multiple smaller tremors, raising concerns among seismologists about increased tectonic movement.

High Risk Region for Earthquakes

Turkey is located on several major fault lines and is considered one of the most earthquake-prone countries in the world. The memory of the catastrophic 7.8-magnitude earthquake in 2023, which killed over 53,000 people in Turkey and 6,000 in northern Syria, remains fresh. That disaster devastated 11 Turkish provinces and left hundreds of thousands homeless.

Authorities continue to monitor seismic activity closely, and citizens are being advised to remain vigilant but calm as aftershocks may continue.