Panic took over the Aegean region late at night when a 5.8 magnitude earthquake suddenly struck near the popular Turkish coastal town of Marmaris. The tremor, which happened while most people were sleeping, caused massive chaos across parts of southwestern Turkey and the Greek island of Rhodes. Buildings shook, people ran into the streets, and one teenage girl sadly died in the terrifying aftermath.
This powerful earthquake was felt not only in Turkey and Greece but as far away as Cairo, Egypt, sending shockwaves through an area already familiar with seismic threats.
What Exactly Happened?
According to the Kandilli Observatory and other seismic monitoring agencies, the earthquake struck around 2:17 a.m. local time on June 3, 2025. Its epicenter was near Marmaris, a tourist hotspot along Turkey’s southwestern coast, with a depth of around 68 kilometers — deep, but still powerful enough to rattle large areas.
People across Rhodes, Fethiye, Marmaris, and other regions woke up in fear as the shaking lasted several seconds, sending shock and confusion through communities.
Tragic Loss: 14-Year-Old Girl Dies
The most heartbreaking part of this disaster came from the town of Fethiye in Turkey, where a 14-year-old girl tragically lost her life. Reports say that she suffered a panic attack during the quake and could not be saved even after being rushed to the hospital.
This single fatality is a painful reminder of how psychological shock during such natural disasters can also lead to deadly consequences, even without a building collapse.
Dozens Injured While Fleeing Buildings
At least 70 people were injured in different cities, most of them while trying to escape their homes. Some jumped from windows and balconies in fear, leading to broken bones and other injuries.
Thankfully, authorities confirmed that there was no major structural damage, thanks in part to the earthquake’s depth and Turkey’s modern construction practices. However, many buildings were left with cracked walls and ceilings, especially older ones.
Panic in Tourist Areas — People Slept Outside
In popular tourist destinations like Rhodes and Marmaris, both locals and visitors ran outside barefoot and frightened. Some stayed in parks and open areas for the rest of the night, too scared to go back inside. Emergency teams were sent out to inspect buildings and help people who had minor injuries or needed shelter.
Are More Quakes Coming?
Experts are now warning that aftershocks are possible in the coming days. While this quake was not as severe as the devastating 7.8 magnitude quake in Turkey in 2023, it is a serious reminder that the Aegean region lies on multiple active fault lines, making it one of the most earthquake-prone areas in the world.
Authorities are advising everyone in the affected regions to remain alert and follow safety guidelines for the next few days.