Reference

Turkey has experienced several devastating earthquakes throughout its history, causing significant damage and loss of life. Below are some notable historical earthquakes:

1. Antakya (Antioch) Earthquake, 115 CE

   • The earthquake in Antakya on December 13, 115 CE, is considered one of the most devastating with approximately 260,000 casualties.
   • 

2. Izmit Earthquake, 1999

   • Known as the 1999 İzmit or Kocaeli earthquake, it struck northwestern Turkey on August 17, 1999, with a magnitude of 7.4. The earthquake caused extensive damage and resulted in over 17,000 deaths.
   • 

3. Van Earthquake, 2011

   • A magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck the eastern city of Van on October 23, 2011, resulting in extensive damage and over 600 deaths.
   • 

4. Elazığ Earthquake, 2020

   • The Elazığ earthquake took place on January 24, 2020, with a magnitude of 6.7. It caused significant structural damage and led to the deaths of at least 41 people.
   • 

5. 2023 Turkey-Syria Earthquake

   • Among the most recent and devastating, this earthquake struck on February 6, 2023, with a magnitude of 7.8. It affected southern and central Turkey as well as northern Syria, resulting in tens of thousands of casualties.
   • 

These events are just a few examples of the significant seismic activity that Turkey has experienced over its history, largely due to its position along several major fault lines, including the North Anatolian Fault.