Recent earthquakes near Istanbul
Istanbul lies just north of the Marmara segment of the North Anatolian Fault, which runs beneath the Sea of Marmara only about 20 km south of the city. This segment has not ruptured since 1766 while faults to its east have, concentrating strain nearby. Seismologists regard a large Marmara earthquake as one of the most anticipated seismic events in the region. In the past 24 hours, Istanbul has recorded no earthquakes above the reporting threshold.
Counts include M2.5+ events — the smallest size USGS reports consistently worldwide.
Frequently asked questions
Is Istanbul at risk of a major earthquake?
Yes. The Marmara segment of the North Anatolian Fault runs just offshore south of Istanbul and has accumulated strain unreleased since the 18th century. Turkish scientists estimate a high probability of a magnitude 7 or greater earthquake there in the coming decades.
When did Istanbul last have a big earthquake?
Istanbul was heavily damaged in 1509 and 1766. More recently, the 1999 İzmit earthquake (M7.6) struck about 90 km to the east, killing over 17,000 people and shaking the city strongly without rupturing the Marmara segment directly.
Why is the fault near Istanbul so dangerous?
The North Anatolian Fault has ruptured westward toward Istanbul in a century-long sequence, leaving the Marmara segment as a 'seismic gap.' Its proximity to a metropolitan area of over 15 million people makes the potential impact severe.
Nearby regions
Live data from the USGS earthquake feeds. Magnitudes and depths are automated readings and may be revised. Not for emergency use.