15.08.2025 22:16
Prof. Dr. Naci Görür stated that the time for the Marmara region to produce an earthquake has expired, emphasizing that the probability of an earthquake of at least 7.2 magnitude in Istanbul is very high. He highlighted that the greatest destruction would occur on the European side, and expressed that the risk of acceleration and destruction is greater in coastal areas during a potential earthquake.
After the 6.1 magnitude earthquake that occurred in the Sındırgı district of Balıkesir and was felt in the Aegean and Marmara regions, the possibility of an earthquake in Marmara has come back to the agenda. Speaking at the earthquake awareness seminar organized by the Ataşehir Municipality, seismologist Prof. Dr. Naci Görür drew attention to the serious danger awaiting Istanbul and the Marmara Region.
"A 7.2 MAGNITUDE EARTHQUAKE COULD OCCUR"
Stating that the North Anatolian Fault is one of the most earthquake-producing fault lines in the world, Görür said, "Wherever this fault breaks, it targets the west for the next earthquake. It broke in Kocaeli in 1999, and we are to the west of it. The probability of an earthquake of at least 7.2 magnitude occurring in Istanbul is very high."
"PRAY AS MUCH AS YOU WANT, YOU CANNOT STOP IT"
Görür reminded that the fault line produces a major earthquake every 250 years, noting that it has been 250 years since the last major earthquake occurred in 1766, and said, "The time for Marmara to produce an earthquake has expired. Pray as much as you want, you cannot stop this mechanism. Earthquakes occur according to the unchangeable laws of nature."
"THE HIGHEST RISK IS ON THE EUROPEAN SIDE"
Stating that the greatest destruction in an earthquake will be seen on the European side, Görür said, "In some areas of the Asian side, the intensity of the earthquake will also be felt strongly. It is certain that we will face an earthquake with a magnitude of about 8-9. Even the strongest buildings will be damaged in a magnitude 9 earthquake. Those living by the sea on the European side enjoy the view, but the risk of acceleration and destruction in a possible earthquake is much higher."