Turkish official: Major earthquake may strike Istanbul at any moment

President of the Turkish Grand National Assembly Numan Kurtulmus has warned that the expected major earthquake in Istanbul may occur at any time.

He addressed the recent earthquakes that struck Istanbul, expressing concern and solidarity with those affected, Caliber.Az reports per Turkish media.

Kurtulmus wished a "swift recovery" to those impacted by the tremors, acknowledging the widespread effects in Istanbul and surrounding regions.

"We experienced an earthquake that was strongly felt in Istanbul and its surrounding areas," he said.

While no fatalities or injuries have been reported so far, Kurtulmus underscored the gravity of the situation.

"We hope to get through this earthquake without major consequences. This is another danger we will leave behind for the nation," he stated, acknowledging the ongoing risk that the region faces.

Kurtulmus also highlighted the potential for a much larger earthquake in Istanbul, warning that such an event could occur at any moment. 

"Our country, along with all our institutions and organisations, must be prepared, and we must ensure that we face any potential earthquake in Istanbul with the least loss of life possible," he added.

Earlier, the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) issued a strong warning to residents following a powerful earthquake that struck Istanbul and surrounding regions on April 23, urging citizens to avoid entering damaged buildings and to remain vigilant amid potential aftershocks.

The quake, which struck at 12:49 p.m. (GMT+3), measured 6.2 on the Richter scale, according to AFAD. The epicentre was located in the Sea of Marmara, about 40 kilometres (25 miles) southwest of Istanbul, and the quake had a shallow depth of 10 kilometres (6 miles), the United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported.

Although no immediate reports of widespread damage or fatalities were received in Istanbul, a city of over 16 million residents, the tremor sent panic through the streets and forced the cancellation of public holiday events, including children’s celebrations.

The earthquake was felt across neighbouring provinces and as far away as Izmir, some 550 kilometres (340 miles) south of Istanbul. Authorities reported multiple aftershocks, the strongest of which measured 5.3.

By Naila Huseynova