21.10.2025 10:23
Japanese earthquake expert Yoshinori Moriwaki stated that there has been energy accumulation for 400 years, particularly along the Bandırma fault in the Marmara Region, and warned, "Care should be taken in this area." Moriwaki mentioned that a major earthquake is not expected in Kırıkkale, but the surrounding area of Bandırma poses a risk, and he added, "Every individual should be prepared for an earthquake."
The Japanese earthquake expert, high construction engineer, and architect Yoshinori Moriwaki stated that there has been energy accumulation in the Marmara Region, particularly along the Bandırma line, for about 400 years, warning that "care should be taken in this area."
Speaking at the conference titled "Turkey's Seismicity Through the Eyes of a Japanese Earthquake Expert," held at Kırıkkale University Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Moriwaki emphasized Turkey's position on the earthquake zone. During the event moderated by Prof. Dr. Orhan Doğan, Moriwaki highlighted the similar seismic characteristics of Japan and Turkey and explained the importance of earthquake-resistant structures.
"NO EARTHQUAKE IN BANDIRMA FOR 400 YEARS"
After the conference, Moriwaki made statements to İHA, noting that the risk continues, especially in the Marmara Region, stating, "After the Elazığ earthquake in 2020, there were earthquakes in Manisa, Muğla, and İzmir. However, the İzmir fault line has not yet ruptured. The Yalova-Çınarcık line in the Marmara Region ruptured in 1999, and the Çanakkale-Gelibolu line ruptured in 1912. However, the 170-kilometer line from Tekirdağ to Yalova can be divided into three sections. There was a 6.1 magnitude earthquake off the coast of Silivri, but this area is not fully relieved. The 70-kilometer section between Küçükçekmece and Yalova still has the potential to produce a major earthquake. Additionally, there is a fault line extending towards Gemlik, Bursa, Bandırma, Balıkesir, and Ayvalık. There has not been a major earthquake in Bandırma for about 350-400 years. Therefore, there is energy accumulation there, and caution is necessary," he stated.
"NO MAJOR EARTHQUAKE EXPECTED IN KIRIKKALE"
Moriwaki also addressed the seismic situation in Central Anatolia, stating, "There is a short fault line south of Kırıkkale, which goes towards Lake Tuz. There is also an active fault north of Çankırı. However, the ground in Ankara is rocky and not directly on a fault line. Therefore, a major earthquake is not expected in Kırıkkale. However, small tremors may occur from time to time around Kütahya, Niğde, and Konya," he said.
"EVERYONE SHOULD BE PREPARED FOR AN EARTHQUAKE"
The Japanese expert emphasized the importance of individual preparedness in Turkey, stating, "An earthquake can happen at any moment, so everyone needs to be ready. Basic necessities such as water, a whistle, chocolate, and salt should definitely be included in the emergency bag. Household items should be secured, and family members should determine a meeting point in advance. When the earthquake occurred in Japan in 2011, I could not meet with my family. Therefore, everyone should know where to meet in advance," he said.