Earthquake of magnitude 6.1 in Balıkesir Province: buildings destroyed, no casualties

Late in the evening of October 27, a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 6.1 struck the Sındırgı district of Balıkesir Province. The tremors were felt across many parts of western Turkey, including İzmir, Manisa, and Bursa.

According to the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), the epicenter of the earthquake was at a depth of about 10 kilometers. Within the first hour after the main shock, 26 aftershocks were recorded, three of which exceeded magnitude 4.

According to official data, there were no casualties. However, three residential buildings and one commercial facility — a shop — completely collapsed. Several other houses sustained serious damage. AFAD rescue teams and specialists are on-site assessing the damage and inspecting the stability of structures.

Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya stated that all government services are operating in coordination. Temporary heating and food stations have been set up in the affected area. Authorities urged citizens not to enter damaged buildings and to take precautions due to the risk of further tremors.

Today, schools in the Sındırgı district will remain closed, and pregnant employees and persons with disabilities have been excused from work.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan expressed his support for the residents of the region and emphasized that the government is ready to provide all necessary assistance.

Experts remind that Balıkesir is located in one of the most seismically active regions of the country, where destructive earthquakes occur frequently. Specialists warn that the likelihood of aftershocks remains high in the coming days.