A moderate earthquake measuring 5.1 on the Richter scale struck Turkey on Thursday at approximately 3:46 p.m., according to the independent scientific organisation, the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC). The epicenter of the tremor was located about 14 kilometers northeast of the town of Kulu.
The quake was notably felt across a wide area, with strong tremors reaching the Turkish capital, Ankara. However, as reported by Iran's state-affiliated Mehr News Agency, there have been no immediate reports of casualties or injuries related to the incident.
This seismic event follows closely on the heels of a stronger earthquake that struck the region near Fry, Greece, early on Wednesday. That earthquake, recorded at a magnitude of 6.1 by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), occurred at 1:51 a.m. local time and originated at a depth of 78 kilometers beneath the Earth’s surface.
The Greek earthquake’s impact extended far beyond the immediate area. Tremors were reported as far away as Cairo, Egypt, and were also felt in Israel, Lebanon, Turkey, and Jordan. Given the magnitude and offshore epicenter in southeastern Greece, local authorities issued a tsunami warning as a precautionary measure.
Also Read: 6.2 magnitude earthquake jolts Istanbul
Seismic activity is not uncommon in this part of the world. Turkey, in particular, lies in a geologically active zone and experiences frequent earthquakes. According to Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), the country typically records at least one earthquake of magnitude 5.0 or higher on a regular basis.
Earlier this year, the island of Santorini in Greece experienced a sequence of tremors, several of which surpassed magnitude 5. Despite the frequency and strength of these events, no significant damage was reported during that period.
One of the most devastating recent earthquakes in the region occurred in February 2023, when a powerful 7.8 magnitude quake struck Turkey and Syria. It was quickly followed by a second earthquake measuring 7.5, as well as a series of intense aftershocks. The destruction caused widespread building collapses and led to significant loss of life—approximately 59,000 fatalities in Turkey and 8,000 in Syria.
The latest tremors in Turkey and Greece serve as further reminders of the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity and the ongoing need for preparedness and resilient infrastructure.
Also Read: 5.8 magnitude quake jolts Afghanistan, tremors felt in Delhi
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