Earthquake in Istanbul: Expert Weighs in on threat to Greece
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Istanbul — April 24, 2025 —
An early Wednesday morning, a 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck near Istanbul, Turkey, raising concerns across the region [2]. The earthquake was felt in Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania. However, seismologist Costas Papazahos believes the immediate threat to Greece from the recent earthquake appears minimal. For more details on the aftershocks, continue reading.
Earthquake in Istanbul: Expert Weighs in on Threat to Greece
April 24, 2025
A 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck near Istanbul on Wednesday,causing concern in neighboring countries [2], [3]. While the tremors were felt as far away as Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania, a leading seismologist suggests the immediate threat to Greece appears minimal.
Expert Analysis: Costas Papazahos on the Istanbul Earthquake
Costas Papazahos, a seismologist, addressed the situation following the earthquake that shook the northern Marmara Sea region. While acknowledging the strength of the quake, Papazahos stated it does not seem to be a serious threat to Greece.
However, he cautioned that it is too early to make some predictions about how things can develop.
Fault Line Dynamics and Seismic activity
Papazahos explained the earthquake’s origin: The earthquake occurred along a certain dismissal area, in which the lower plate is shifted to the east and the upper remains generally stable.
He added, This is a familiar fault.
Despite the epicenter’s proximity to the fault’s center, the seismic sequence extends towards Istanbul.
“Not the Great Earthquake”: Reassurance and Vigilance
Papazahos clarified that this earthquake was not the major event anticipated for some time. This was not the ‘great earthquake we have been afraid of’ for a long time, which in his words are expected to be more east, in segments of the fault, which have not yet been interrupted.
He characterized it as a relatively small event for this fault and there will probably be many limited reflections, possibly minor effects in the coastal areas.
While the earthquake was onyl weakly felt in Greece, Papazahos emphasized the ancient seismic activity of the fault line. He warned that the fault is located in a historically strong seismic zone that caused magnitude 7 Richter.
He concluded, With that in mind, we must remain vigilant, although there is no serious cause for concern so far.
regional Impact and Aftermath
The Disaster and Emergency Management Directorate (AFAD) in Turkey reported the 6.2 magnitude earthquake in the istanbul region [1]. The tremors were felt across a wide geographical area, including Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania. Initial reports indicate over 150 injuries in Istanbul [1].
FAQ: Earthquake in Istanbul
- Was the earthquake a major threat to Greece?
According to seismologist Costas Papazahos,the earthquake does not seem to be a serious threat to Greece.
- How strong was the earthquake?
The earthquake registered a magnitude of 6.2.
- Where was the earthquake felt?
The earthquake was felt in Turkey, Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania.
- Is this the “great earthquake” expected in the region?
No, according to Costas Papazahos, this was not the “great earthquake” that has been anticipated.
