Powerful 6.2 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Istanbul

Istanbul, 23 Apr (ONA) --- A strong earthquake with a magnitude of 6.2 shook Istanbul today, the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) said, one of the strongest quakes to strike the city of 16 million in recent years.

There were no immediate reports of damage, but people evacuated buildings as the quake hit and shook the city, located on the European and Asian shores of the Bosporus.

The epicenter of the quake, which struck at 12:49 p.m. (9:49 a.m. GMT), was in the area of Silivri, some 80 kilometers (50 miles) to the west of Istanbul. It was at a depth of 6.92 kilometers, AFAD said.

Residents left their homes and apartments following the tremors, which were clearly felt in the city centre.

AFAD warned people in the region against entering damaged buildings.

Türkiye is crossed by two major fault lines, and earthquakes are frequent. Experts believe that a large earthquake is overdue in the city of 16 million people.

--- Ends/Khalid