Izmit-Turkey EQ, Magnitude 7.4

Update 1 | Summary
Posting Date: August 18, 1999, 6:55:00 AM

The US Geological Survey (USGS) has revised its estimate of the magnitude of Monday’s earthquake near Izmit, Turkey. The current estimate is moment magnitude 7.4. Note that this number is still subject to revision as information from worldwide seismic networks continues to come in. The death toll released by Turkish government officials stands at close to 3,500. Thousands more, however, are believed to be trapped under collapsed buildings. In Kocaeli, over 500 buildings are completely collapsed. The oil refinery near Izmit is still burning out of control, with the risk that the fire will spread to a nearby fertilizer plant, where ammonia is stored. AIR is sending a team of engineers to the area to conduct a post-disaster field survey. The results of this research will be used to validate and calibrate the damage functions used in the AIR earthquake model for Turkey, which is due for release later this year. AIR will continue to monitor events in this area and will post additional information as necessary.

Update 1 | Downloads
Posting Date: August 18, 1999, 6:55:00 AM