Warning from earthquake expert: Major tremors are always at Turkey's doorstep

Important warnings have come from Prof. Dr. Tolga Bekler, Director of the ÇOMÜ Earthquake Research and Application Center, who pointed out that Turkey is among the world's leading high-risk countries in terms of seismicity. Prof. Dr. Bekler reminded that earthquakes of magnitude 6.5 and above occur in the country every 10-15 years, while tremors of magnitude 7 and greater occur every 35-40 years. Bekler, an expert in the field of geophysical engineering, pointed out that earthquake preparedness must be addressed not only individually but also socially and structurally.

ALL REGIONS OF TURKEY ARE AT RISK

Recalling the recent earthquakes in Kahramanmaraş, İzmir, Van, and along the North Anatolian fault line, Prof. Dr. Bekler stated, "Destructive earthquakes occurring on main fault lines across Turkey demonstrate that all regions can be affected by these disasters. We see earthquakes of magnitude 6.5 and above in our country at 10-15 year intervals. Earthquakes of magnitude 7 and greater cause serious destruction in different tectonic regions approximately every 35-40 years," he said.

MORE SUPPORT IS ESSENTIAL FOR EARTHQUAKE ANALYSES

Underlining that earth scientists need more comprehensive observation and research opportunities to conduct accurate analyses, Prof. Dr. Bekler made the following assessments: "To correctly identify earthquake risk in a region, it is necessary to obtain as much observation and data as possible. For example, in the health sector, numerous tests are performed for the correct diagnosis of a patient; we must show the same sensitivity regarding earthquakes. The more the number of earthquake stations is increased, the higher the accuracy of detection and analysis will be."

SOCIAL SOLIDARITY IS IMPORTANT IN THE FIGHT AGAINST EARTHQUAKES

Emphasizing that not only earth scientists but many disciplines, especially civil engineers and architects, must work together to minimize the potential damage of earthquakes, Prof. Dr. Bekler spoke as follows: "The key to earthquake treatment is correct engineering practices and building durable structures. It is essential that appropriate legislation is carefully implemented, building inspection systems work flawlessly, and the public participates in this process consciously. A culture of robust construction is only possible when the state, local governments, and citizens join hands."

Stating that the system must be addressed under three main headings to avoid being affected by earthquakes, Prof. Dr. Bekler said, "The first is earth sciences and sound observations, the second is construction processes that are compliant with legislation and robust, and the third is the public's conscious utilization of this service. When all these elements act together, it is possible to minimize the losses that may occur in earthquake disasters."