5.5‑Magnitude Earthquake Hits Tokat Province, Turkey
Source: Turkish Disaster and Emergency Management Agency (AFAD)
A magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck the north‑eastern Turkish province of Tokat on Friday, according to AFAD.
- Time of the quake: 03:35 local time (00:35 GMT)
- Epicentre: Niksar district, Tokat province
- Affected areas: The tremor was felt in neighbouring provinces, including Samsun, Amasya, Ordu and Sivas.
“No damage has been reported so far,” AFAD said, adding that inspection teams are still on the ground to assess any possible impact.
Precautionary Measures
- Local authorities ordered the closure of all schools in Tokat for Friday as a safety precaution, announced by the regional governor.
Context
Turkey sits on several active seismic faults and experiences frequent earthquakes, some of which are deadly.
- In February 2023, a powerful quake devastated the south‑eastern part of the country, causing over 53,000 deaths and extensive destruction, especially in Antakya (ancient Antioch).
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Keywords: earthquake, Tokat, Niksar, AFAD, Turkey seismic activity, magnitude 5.5, school closures, Turkey earthquakes 2023.
