Breaking News: Major Earthquake Strikes Central Turkey

Powerful Quake Causes Widespread Damage and Loss of Life

ISTANBUL, Turkey - A major earthquake with a magnitude of 7.8 has struck central Turkey, causing widespread damage and loss of life. The quake hit at 4:17 am local time, near the city of Kahramanmaras. The epicenter was located at a depth of 17.9 kilometers.

According to the Turkish Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency (AFAD), at least 50 people have been confirmed dead, and hundreds more injured. Rescue crews are currently working to search for survivors trapped under the rubble of collapsed buildings. The earthquake has also caused significant damage to infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and power lines.

The Turkish government has declared a state of emergency in the affected area and has deployed military personnel to assist with relief efforts. International aid organizations are also being mobilized to provide assistance.

Tremors from the earthquake were felt as far away as Cyprus, Lebanon, and Israel. The quake has also triggered a tsunami warning for the eastern Mediterranean coastline, including Turkey, Cyprus, and Egypt.

This is a developing story and more updates will be provided as they become available.