A powerful 6.2-magnitude earthquake struck Istanbul, sending shockwaves through the city but causing no major damage.

A 6.2-magnitude earthquake shook Istanbul on Wednesday evening, rattling nerves across Turkey’s largest city and surrounding regions but, according to the Turkish Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), leaving no significant injuries or major damage in its wake (AFAD, 2025). Still, the psychological toll was immediate—particularly for residents and public figures like Albanian model and singer Morena Taraku, who offered a deeply personal account of the harrowing experience on social media.

A Night of Fear: Taraku’s First-Person Account

Shortly after the quake struck at approximately 7:20 p.m. local time, Morena Taraku took to her official Instagram account—followed by over 2 million fans—to describe what happened. “I was at the hospital with my father, just a short distance away from him, when I suddenly felt the earthquake. I ran inside shouting, ‘Dad, dad, dad,’ until I grabbed his hand and we ran outside. The scene was indescribable, like a movie—I swear to you. May God bless us all,” Taraku wrote (Instagram, 2025).

Taraku went on to explain the emotional intensity of the moment:

“I never thought that when faced with death, I would go anywhere without him. I don’t know what else to say… I hope God protects everyone and that nothing bad happens. I am still traumatized, but we are okay. Thank you all for your love and care” (Instagram, 2025).

Citywide Tremors and Official Response

The earthquake’s tremors were felt not only throughout Istanbul but also as far as Bursa and Sakarya, prompting brief panic among the city’s 16 million residents. Turkish officials confirmed that the epicenter was near Silivri, west of Istanbul, and reassured the public that, as of late Wednesday evening, there were no reports of casualties or serious structural damage (AFAD, 2025).

Seismologist Prof. Dr. Naci Görür, speaking to Turkish broadcaster NTV, emphasized the importance of preparedness for Istanbul, a city lying on a major fault line with a history of devastating quakes. “We always advise calm but caution. This event reminds us of the constant need for earthquake readiness in Istanbul,” Görür said (NTV, 2025).

Lingering Emotional Impact

While authorities continued to monitor the situation and urge calm, many Istanbul residents—especially those who experienced the quake up close—are grappling with lingering anxiety. Morena Taraku’s story, widely shared online, has resonated with thousands who expressed relief that she and her father were unharmed and sent messages of support.

For now, Istanbul remains on alert, with officials reminding the public of Turkey’s ongoing seismic risks and the importance of following safety guidelines.

Sources:

• AFAD, 2025 (Turkish Disaster and Emergency Management Authority)
• Instagram post by Morena Taraku, April 23, 2025
• NTV, 2025 (Turkish broadcaster)