The Istanbul municipality has sounded the alarm due to repeated warnings about a devastating earthquake in the city that could exceed 7 degrees in magnitude. In light of this serious situation, which is unsettling citizens, the municipality is taking possible precautionary measures to mitigate the disaster.
In this context, informed sources from the Istanbul municipality have confirmed that officials are in constant discussions to implement limited actions on the ground to protect infrastructure to make it earthquake-resistant, especially with the presence of natural gas networks, drinking water, the metro, and tunnels, which signals a very dangerous crisis.
The sources indicated that more than one geologist has asserted that the earthquake could be strong and destructive, thus the government needs to take the matter seriously and be ready to act and reduce the likelihood of a disaster. Furthermore, geologist Sinan Tarkan's office stated, "There is no escape from an expected earthquake in Istanbul."
The office, which employs dozens of university students, revealed that "government preparations such as the restoration of old buildings, the evacuation of those at risk of collapse, and the preparation of shelters would help reduce the potential disaster's impact."
Turkish geology experts refuse to provide a specific timeline for the anticipated earthquake, but they collectively agree that a strong earthquake will strike Istanbul. They emphasize that warnings from specialists are crucial and important for the government to prepare and take necessary actions regarding the readiness of medical rescue teams, securing healthcare services, preparing humanitarian aid, and raising awareness among residents to handle this potential natural disaster without panic.
Sinan Tarkan's office added, "Wherever the North Anatolian fault causes an earthquake, its west becomes the target for the next earthquake." Geologists warn that the number of faults in Turkey is around 500, which could lead to earthquakes exceeding 5.5 degrees in magnitude, indicating that the country faces a real danger, especially since recent earthquakes have shown the presence of over 500 active faults.
