A 6.2-magnitude earthquake reverberated off the coast of Turkey on Wednesday, and more than 150 people have been reported injured, with damage assessments still taking place throughout the region.

The quake’s epicenter was recorded in the Sea of Marmara, about 25 miles southwest of Istanbul, home to about 16 million people. The country’s Interior Ministry reported that the quake lasted 13 seconds and was followed by more than 50 aftershocks.

Many people were gathered in public spaces after evacuating buildings, and government officials reported most of the injuries had occurred after people were “injured jumping from heights,” requiring hospital treatment, but none were in life-threatening condition.

Direct Relief Response

Direct Relief has staff in Turkey, and the organization has responded extensively to earthquakes in the region, including the 2023 Turkey/Syria earthquake, which caused widespread devastation to human life and infrastructure.

In response to the current earthquake, Direct Relief has been in contact with partner organizations throughout the region, including the Emergency Medical Association of Turkey, Turkish Medical Association, and Needs Map about any medical needs.

Following the 2023 earthquakes, Direct Relief has supported partner organizations with ongoing efforts to strengthen emergency response preparedness and capacity efforts to strengthen readiness for future seismic events along the North Anatolian Fault.

The organization will continue to respond to any requests for medical aid.