16.07.2026 13:00
Following the 3.9 magnitude earthquake in Ayvacık, Çanakkale, renowned earth scientist Prof. Dr. Naci Görür issued a critical warning. Pointing to the fault where the tremor occurred, Görür emphasized that the Marmara Region is under strain, stating, "We are expecting a major earthquake on the northern branch soon."
According to data from the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) Earthquake Department, an earthquake of magnitude 3.9 was recorded in the Ayvacık district of Çanakkale at around 22:15. The tremor, which occurred at a depth of 13.03 kilometers in the Earth's crust, caused short-term panic in Ayvacık and surrounding districts, but according to initial assessments, there was no loss of life or property.
"THE MARMARA REGION IS STRAINING" Immediately after the earthquake, seismologist Prof. Dr. Naci Görür made assessments through his social media account, drawing attention to the technical details of the tremor and what it means for the region. Stating that the earthquake occurred on the Küçükkuyu Fault, Görür noted that a shallow and small tremor was experienced. However, emphasizing that this activity is part of a larger picture, the renowned geoscientist pointed to the southern branch of the North Anatolian Fault Line: "This zone indicates that the Marmara Region is straining. We expect the major earthquake soon on the northern branch."
WARNINGS SHOULD BE HEEDED Görür's statement once again brought to the agenda the warnings that preparations for the expected major earthquake in the Marmara Region should be accelerated without delay.
Şener Üşümezsoy ŞENER ÜŞÜMEZ DISAGREES On the other hand, Prof. Dr. Şener Üşümezsoy said that the claims about an 8-magnitude earthquake in Istanbul do not reflect reality, stating, "No one has asked what is needed for an 8-magnitude earthquake. A 500-kilometer fault line would need to rupture. So, how long is the Marmara? 150 kilometers. We need three Marmaras."