A 5.6 magnitude earthquake centered in Sulusaray, Tokat province was recorded at 18:11, as reported on AFAD’s website. The earthquake, which occurred at a depth of about 6 kilometers, was also felt in neighboring provinces. AFAD advised citizens not to enter damaged buildings.
Following the earthquake, aftershocks measuring 4.4 and 4.1 magnitudes, also centered in Sulusaray, continued to shake the region. In Tokat, schools were closed for a day due to the ongoing aftershocks. Concerned about another earthquake, residents in Tokat spent the night outdoors.
Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz commented on the earthquake in Tokat, extending his well wishes to those affected and stating that search and rescue operations were ongoing. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced that response teams were mobilized following the earthquake, with no reports of casualties or injuries.
Deputy Interior Minister Münir Karaloğlu provided an update on the damage caused by the earthquake, stating that a total of 5 earthquakes and 41 aftershocks were recorded. He assured that no casualties had been reported, and efforts were underway to assess and repair the damaged buildings.
Karaloğlu emphasized that transportation, electricity, and communication were not disrupted in the affected region. He encouraged residents not to heed false information circulating on social media and to rely on AFAD for accurate updates. Relief efforts were coordinated, with shelters prepared for those whose homes were damaged.
AFAD President Okay Memiş issued a warning to residents not to enter damaged buildings, as rescue teams and evaluators worked to secure unsafe structures. Relief efforts, including the distribution of tents and food, were in progress in the affected areas as the community came together to support those impacted by the earthquake.