A series of earthquakes has struck Istanbul, a metropolis of 16 million people. The strongest quake registered a magnitude of 6.2, according to the disaster management agency Afad. Residents left their homes and apartments following the tremors, which were felt strongly in the city center.
Initial reports indicate no immediate damage. The epicenters were located in the Sea of Marmara, near the city, according to Afad.
Experts believe that an earthquake around magnitude 7 is overdue in the city. Turkish Urban Development Minister Murat Kurum estimates that 1.5 million residential and commercial units are vulnerable to earthquakes.