Turkey: Casualties reported in aftermath of magnitude-7.0 earthquake near Izmir October 30 /update 1

Event

At least 17 people have been reported killed and 709 injured following a magnitude-7.0 earthquake off Turkey's west coast on Friday, October 30. Several buildings have been destroyed in Izmir and in surrounding towns, with some collapsing after the initial earthquake, possibly due to aftershocks. Turkish environment minister Murat Kurum has stated that the Bayrakli neighborhood was the worst affected by the earthquake. Houses in the Seferihisar district, west of Izmir, were flooded by a minor tsunami, and boats in Izmir's harbor were dragged out to sea. Many areas have been left without electricity or other utilities. Hundreds of emergency services personnel, including the military, have been deployed to Izmir, with rescue efforts ongoing at several locations where people are believed to have been buried by collapsed buildings. Authorities have requested individuals stay off the roads in order to allow unimpeded access to emergency services.

Significant disruptions to transportation, business, and utilities are to be expected over the near to medium term. Aftershocks are likely in the affected area over the coming hours and days.

Advice

Those in the affected areas are advised to monitor the situation and prepare for potential aftershocks.

In the event of aftershocks, individuals are advised to protect themselves as much as possible from falling debris if indoors (e.g., under a table), move away from windows, and not attempt to leave a building unless there is immediate danger. If outdoors, move away from tall buildings, utility wires, and streetlights.