Earthquake of magnitude 6.2 shakes Istanbul, with no casualties reported

The quake hit at 12.49 local time (0949 GMT) and was felt strongly across Istanbul, home to over 15 million people, and neighboring provinces, prompting residents to flee buildings in fear.

Another earthquake of magnitude 4.9 struck at 13.02 (10:02 GMT), with the epicenter off the coast of Buyukcekmece in the Sea of ​​Marmara.

AFAD said that following the assessment of reports received by the 112 Emergency Call Center, there were currently no reports of casualties or destruction.

The agency said all relevant institutions and response teams had been mobilized and field scans were underway to assess potential damage and ensure public safety.

Istanbul governor's office said also said that so far "no reports of destruction have been received, and our relevant units are continuing their field scanning efforts."

It warned citizens not to enter buildings that were damaged or suspected to be damaged due to the tremors, to avoid using vehicles unless necessary, and to refrain from using mobile networks except in emergencies.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said: "I extend my well wishes to our citizens, we are closely monitoring the developments."

He received information about the earthquakes from the interior minister, environment minister, health minister, as well as the head of AFAD and the governor of Istanbul, according to the Communications Directorate.