Are the tremors in Balıkesir a harbinger of a major earthquake? First comments from Ahmet Ercan

The Sındırgı district of Balıkesir was shaken by an earthquake in the morning hours. According to AFAD data, the magnitude of the earthquake was measured at 4.9, while the Kandilli Observatory announced the magnitude as 5.1. The earthquake was felt in Istanbul, Bursa, İzmir, and Çanakkale, as well as in Balıkesir.

While field studies are ongoing in the region following the earthquake, a notable assessment came from geophysicist Prof. Dr. Övgün Ahmet Ercan.

Ercan stated, "The M5.1 earthquake, which occurred at a focal depth of 13 km in Sındırgı, was the largest expected aftershock," and noted the following:

"It may have increased the damage in already damaged structures. I do not expect a larger earthquake to follow."

The M5.1 earthquake, which occurred at a focal depth of 13 km in Sındırgı, was the largest expected aftershock. It may have increased the damage in already damaged structures. I do not expect a larger earthquake to follow. pic.twitter.com/Mac4OLkgox

— Prof. Dr. Övgün Ahmet Ercan (@ovgunaercan) September 7, 2025

News Source: 12punto