Moderate Black Sea Earthquake Shakes Istanbul and Nearby Provinces

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Moderate Black Sea Earthquake Shakes Istanbul and Nearby Provinces

A moderate earthquake struck the Black Sea on October 26, 2025, causing concern among residents of Istanbul and nearby provinces. This tremor, recorded at 7:44 PM local time, reached a magnitude of 3.7 according to Türkiye’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD).

Details of the Earthquake

The earthquake’s epicenter was located beneath the seabed at a depth of 13.57 kilometers. However, the Kandilli Observatory, a prominent seismological research center in Türkiye, recorded a slightly higher magnitude of 3.9 with a depth of 11.2 kilometers. Such discrepancies in readings between monitoring institutions are common.

Impact on the Region

The tremor was felt significantly across Istanbul, Türkiye’s largest city, and extended to several surrounding provinces. This widespread sensation prompted brief anxiety among residents. Seismologist Suleyman Pampal addressed the public via CNN Turk, reassuring them about the quake’s minimal significance.

Magnitude reported by AFAD: 3.7
Kandilli Observatory magnitude: 3.9
Depth by AFAD: 13.57 km
Depth by Kandilli: 11.2 km

Expert Analysis

Pampal emphasized that earthquakes in this region are part of normal seismic activity. He noted that the perceived intensity was attributable to the quake’s depth. “Because the focal depth is somewhat high, it’s normal for it to be felt over a wide area,” he stated.

Additionally, Pampal highlighted that the area where the earthquake occurred does not have major fault lines capable of causing destructive seismic events. He reassured residents, saying, “There’s no need to exaggerate this earthquake.”

Seismic Activity in the Black Sea Region

The Black Sea area frequently experiences seismic activity due to the numerous fault lines extending through northern Türkiye and into Georgia. AFAD continuously monitors earthquakes across Türkiye, providing updates on seismic activities in major provinces, including: