Earthquake of 5.9 magnitude jolts eastern Turkey

A moderately strong earthquake struck eastern Turkey on Wednesday, sparking widespread panic across the region. The 5.9 magnitude quake hit the town of Kale in Malatya province at 10:46 a.m. (07:46 GMT), according to Turkey's Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD). Officials reported no significant injuries or major destruction following the tremor. The quake was also felt in nearby provinces, including Diyarbakir, Elazig, Sanliurfa, and Tunceli, as well as in parts of northern Syria,



as per the Associated Press (AP).

People rushed out of homes and offices in fear throughout the region. More than an hour after the quake struck, many were still waiting in the streets and parks, reluctant to return indoors. Schools were ordered closed in Malatya and Elazig. In Elazig, about a dozen people sustained minor injuries after jumping out of windows in panic, Mayor Sahin Serifogullari said. Around 20 such incidents were reported in Malatya, local media reported.