A 14-year-old girl who died in a 5.8-magnitude earthquake that shook western Turkey and the Greek islands suffered a panic attack and could not be saved in hospital, a Turkish minister said on Wednesday.
Interior minister Ali Yerlikaya said that Afra Nur Günlü died “despite all interventions” in hospital in Fethiye, where she lived.
A local website said the teenager, known for her diligence and cheerfulness, experienced intense fear, which prompted the panic attack.
Some 69 others were injured as they jumped from buildings in the Turkish resort Marmaris, near the epicentre of Tuesday morning's quake.
A British family said the jolts felt like “bombs landing”.
Matthew McCormick, a father of two from Belfast who was holidaying in Rhodes, said: "My gut feeling was either there's been bombs landing somewhere or it's an earthquake.”
Heavy shaking was felt in Rhodes 29km to the south, as well as on other islands around the Aegean Sea, during the quake, shortly after 2am on Tuesday morning.
Key Points
- Teenager who died 'known for diligence and cheerfulness'
- UK tourist in Rhodes says intense earthquake felt like 'bombs landing'
- Turkey earthquake: Powerful 5.8-magnitude quake felt strongly in Rhodes
- Series of aftershocks strike after initial 5.8-magnitude earthquake
- Panicked tourists share accounts of Rhodes earthquake
- Turkey earthquakes 2023 and 2025: Why do they happen?
Turkey earthquake: Powerful 5.8-magnitude quake felt strongly in Rhodes as tourists wake to ‘whole building shaking’
Tuesday 3 June 2025 07:39 , Arpan RaiTourists in western Turkey and the Greek islands were shaken awake on Monday night as a 5.8-magnitude earthquake struck near the popular holiday destination of Rhodes.
The quake struck about 29km north of Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese islands near the Turkey border, at around 2.17am (local time) on Tuesday at a depth of 68km, according to the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre.
Alisha Rahaman Sarkar reports:
Turkey earthquake: Powerful 5.8-magnitude quake felt strongly in Rhodes
Watch: Moment 5.8-magnitude quake rocks popular Rhodes hotel
Tuesday 3 June 2025 07:46Panicked tourists share scary accounts earthquake in Rhodes
Tuesday 3 June 2025 08:13 , Arpan RaiTourists in the popular holiday destination of Rhodes took to X to share their experiences as a 5.8-magnitude earthquake shook their hotels.
“Nothing like being woke up while on the 5th floor building in Rhodes, while a earthquake is violently shaking the building! Something i can tick off the list! #earthquake,” said on X user named.
His post received comments from others who had also woken up in the small hours to find their accommodations shaking.
“Was crazy, my phone earthquake alert woke us both up first, then the whole building started shaking, unreal experience,” said another user.
Was crazy, my phone earthquake alert woke us both up first, then the whole building started shaking, unreal experience
— Steven (@Tomobiffo) June 3, 2025
Teenager killed in Turkey earthquake
Tuesday 3 June 2025 08:14 , Arpan RaiAt least one person has died in Turkey, while dozens of people sustained injuries as panicked locals tried to jump off their buildings, according to local reports.
A 14-year-old child died in the resort town of Fethiye following the earthquake, interior minister Ali Yerlikaya said. The teenager was brought to the hospital but could not be saved, he added.
Dozens of locals were taken to hospital for treatment in Mugla in Turkey after they suffered injuries while trying to rush outside their homes.
Acar Unlu, the mayor of the Turkish resort town of Marmaris, told NTV broadcast that the region was jolted by the earthquake, prompting disaster management teams to be dispatched to assess the damage.
Read more here:
Turkey earthquake: Powerful 5.8-magnitude quake felt strongly in Rhodes
British tourists urged to take caution in Turkey amid earthquake aftershocks
Tuesday 3 June 2025 08:23 , Arpan RaiTravel agency TUI has cautioned British tourists in the region to “remain calm and follow any safety instructions provided by your accommodation or local officials”.
The region has been struck by multiple aftershocks, ranging from small tremors up to 2.9-magnitude quakes with epicentres near Mugla and Rhodes, since shortly after the initial powerful earthquake of magnitude 5.8 struck at 2.17am local time.
A look at previous earthquakes in Turkey
Tuesday 3 June 2025 08:35 , Arpan RaiEarthquakes are relatively frequent in Turkey as the country is crossed by two major fault lines. This year alone, the country has witnessed three deadly earthquakes.
At least 53,000 people were killed in a 7.8-magnitude earthquake on 6 February 2023 followed by a second powerful tremor. The earthquakes destroyed scores of buildings and roads in 11 southern and southeastern provinces. The same incident killed 6,000 people in neighbouring Syria.
Last month a powerful 6.1-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Crete in Greece, prompting the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre to issue an alert for a possible tsunami. Some popular sites on the island were closed amid landslides, but no significant injuries or damage were reported.
In April this year, about 236 residents were injured after jumping from buildings in panic following a 6.2-magnitude earthquake that struck Istanbul. Many residents were also forced to spend the night outdoors after powerful aftershocks.
Turkey earthquake 2023 and 2025: Why do they happen?
Tuesday 3 June 2025 08:58 , Arpan RaiOn a Monday morning in 2023, Turkey was hit by two powerful earthquakes in quick succession.
The first, the worst to strike the country since the Erzincan quake of 1939, measured 7.8 on the Richter scale and struck near Gaziantep in the southeast of Turkey, killing more than 1,300 people in the region and neighbouring Syria, with the impact felt as far away as Cairo, Egypt, and Italy bracing for a possible tsunami.
The British Geological Survey explains that earthquakes like these, which so often have devastating consequences, are the result of “sudden movement along faults within the earth”.
Joe Sommerlad explains why they take occur:
Mapped: Where did the earthquake occur in Greece and Turkey
Tuesday 3 June 2025 09:09 , Arpan RaiAn earthquake struck about 29km north of Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese islands near the Turkey border, at around 2.17am (local time) today at a depth of 68km, according to the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre.
Here’s a look at the map showing where exactly the quake occured:
❗Update: #Earthquake (#σεισμός, #deprem) M5.8 occurred 29 km N of #Ródos (#Greece) 34 min ago (local time 02:17:27). Info at:
— EMSC (@LastQuake) June 2, 2025
📱https://t.co/QMSpuj6Z2H
🌐https://t.co/HCYjJBakPR
🖥https://t.co/2Mqwnj4qIm pic.twitter.com/HMgE8pPxbh
Turkey earthquake: Is it safe to travel to Turkey and Rhodes? Simon Calder explains all
Tuesday 3 June 2025 09:38 , Arpan RaiThe Independent’s travel correspondent Simon Calder has explained all you need to know if you have a holiday booked to Turkey or Greece.
Turkey earthquake: Is it safe to travel to Turkey and Rhodes? Simon Calder explains
Can you claim compensation if a natural disaster disrupts your travel?
Tuesday 3 June 2025 09:59 , Maroosha MuzaffarYou’re not entitled to airline compensation for flight delays or cancellations caused by natural disasters, as these fall under “extraordinary circumstances” under UK and EU law, travel insurance expert Alicia Hempsted from MoneySuperMarket says.
However, airlines must still provide food, drink, and accommodation depending on the delay length.
She adds: “If extreme conditions are forecasted before you book or leave for your trip, and you choose to travel regardless, your insurance provider may not cover you for any related problems.”
Ms Hempsted adds: “Buying your travel insurance as soon as you book your trip can ensure you are protected against the unexpected. Check your policy terms before buying your insurance, as some travel insurance providers may not cover you as standard in the event of a natural disaster.
“Be aware that if your policy includes natural disaster cover, this will only be paid out if the FCDO warns against anything other than essential travel. If your plans are impacted by a disaster, contact your insurance and airline as soon as you can.”
Expert answers questions on travel rights in the wake of 5.8-magnitude earthquake
Tuesday 3 June 2025 10:10 , Maroosha MuzaffarIn the wake of the 5.8-magnitude earthquake affecting Rhodes and Marmaris, Alicia Hempsted of MoneySuperMarket says: “Natural disasters, such as earthquakes, can leave holidaymakers facing increased delays, travel disruption and cancellations. Travellers who are affected should check their travel insurance policy documents to see if they are eligible for compensation.”
“Travel insurance policies that include natural disaster cover will generally cover you for cancelled accommodation, travel and activities, as well as emergency medical care and evacuation should you need it.”
Is it safe to travel to Turkey or Rhodes after major earthquake injures dozens?
Tuesday 3 June 2025 10:30 , Maroosha MuzaffarHolidaymakers in southwest Turkey and neighbouring islands in Greece were shaken awake this morning by a strong earthquake.
In the early hours of Tuesday, a 5.8-magnitude quake struck just south of the Turkish resort of Marmaris. Tremors were also felt across the water on the Greek island of Rhodes.
A 14-year-old girl is said to have died in the resort town of Fethiye “due to a panic attack”, reported Turkish interior minister Ali Yerlikaya on X/Twitter.
The minister added that 69 other citizens suffered injuries after they “jumped from heights due to panic”.
Flights to and from Dalaman Airport are operating as usual, and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is not advising against travel to the area. But is it safe to go, and what are your rights if you have a trip booked? Here’s everything we know.
Is it safe to travel to Turkey or Rhodes after major earthquake injures dozens?
Where was the earthquake?
Tuesday 3 June 2025 10:50 , Maroosha MuzaffarAccording to the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre, the epicentre of the earthquake was just outside the Turkish resort town of Marmaris at a depth of 69km (42 miles).
The 5.8-magnitude earthquake hit at 2.17am local time.
Heavy shaking was felt in Rhodes, just 29km to the south, as well as on other islands around the Aegean Sea.
The eastern Mediterranean is a seismically active part of Europe, and the region has been struck by multiple aftershocks, ranging from small tremors up to 2.9-magnitude quakes with epicentres near Mugla and Rhodes.
Turkish woman recounts moment earthquake shattered her home
Tuesday 3 June 2025 11:10 , Maroosha MuzaffarAn unidentified woman who lives in Armutalan in Turkey, about 13 miles from the epicentre, recounted the moment the earthquake severely damaged her home.
“I was asleep in bed with my daughter, the whole bed started shaking, the lights were flashing on and off, glass smashed,” she told The Daily Express.
She said that the plaster from the walls was torn and she saw “big cracks” as she was left “petrified”.
The woman said the earthquake “went on for a very long time and was very strong”.
Marmaris governor offers condolences after teen dies during earthquake
Tuesday 3 June 2025 11:30 , Maroosha MuzaffarA 14-year-old girl named Afranur Gunlu died in Fethiye in Turkey after suffering what officials described as a panic attack triggered by the earthquake.
It’s not clear exactly how this led to her death and details are still emerging.
The governor of Marmaris, Idris Akbiyik, said: “In Fethiye, a 14-year-old girl named Afranur Gunlu was taken to the hospital due to a panic attack but, unfortunately, despite all interventions, she passed away.”
He added: “I wish God’s mercy upon our deceased Afranur child and offer my condolences to [her] family. I offer my best wishes to our citizens affected by the earthquake. May God protect our country and our nation from disasters.”
Series of aftershocks strike after initial 5.8-magnitude earthquake
Tuesday 3 June 2025 11:37 , Maroosha MuzaffarA series of aftershocks have continued to strike western Turkey and the Greek islands throughout today, according to the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre website.
Dozens of small earthquakes have been recorded since the initial powerful 5.8-magnitude quake, ranging from 1.2 to 3.2 in magnitude.
At least one person, a 14-year-old girl in Turkey, died during the earthquake, and 69 others were injured in the aftermath.
CCTV footage captures moment earthquake struck
Tuesday 3 June 2025 11:50 , Maroosha MuzaffarCCTV clips are emerging of swimming pools rippling and buildings shaking, as well as cats leaping across the room in fear, in Marmaris in Turkey during the 5.8-magnitude earthquake that struck this morning.
A teenager died and 69 others were injured after a 5.8-magnitude earthquake struck off Turkey’s west coast near Marmaris at 2:17 a.m.
— Volcaholic 🌋 (@volcaholic1) June 3, 2025
Many were hurt jumping from buildings in panic. The quake was also felt in nearby regions, including the Greek island of Rhodes. pic.twitter.com/24IVDFddyT
Minor material damage in Rhodes, regional governor says
Tuesday 3 June 2025 12:10 , Maroosha MuzaffarGiorgos Hadjimarkos, regional governor of the South Aegean – that includes popular islands like Rhodes and Santorini – said assessments have so far shown only minor material damage from the earthquake in Rhodes.
He reassured tourists that there is no risk of stronger aftershocks.
“We are on alert, and the only thing we have to deal with immediately is the fear of our visitors… We are trying to explain to them that it is a normal phenomenon and that they are not in any danger and that construction in Greece is among the best in Europe,” he said, according to local media outlets.
What do I do if I have a holiday booked in Turkey or Rhodes?
Tuesday 3 June 2025 12:30 , Maroosha MuzaffarSimon Calder, travel correspondent of The Independent says: “The answer is: continue as normal. I can't see any likelihood that the holiday companies will allow people to cancel their trips without triggering the usual cancellation penalties.
“It is possible that they may, subject to availability, allow you to move your holiday to somewhere else. But to put things into perspective quakes like this are far from unknown.”
He added: “They are disconcerting, but there is no need to take further action.”
What is the latest Foreign Office travel advice?
Tuesday 3 June 2025 12:50 , Maroosha MuzaffarThe Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has not released any new travel advice relating to the earthquake as of Tuesday morning (3 June).
General earthquake advice from the FCDO states: “Many parts of Turkey regularly experience earthquakes and tremors. These can be high magnitude, cause damage to infrastructure, and pose a risk to life.
“A 6.2-magnitude earthquake, which occurred in the Sea of Marmara in April 2025, was felt strongly in Istanbul. Be aware of the risk of aftershocks.”
Similarly, for travel to Greece: “The area around the Cycladic islands of Santorini (Thira), Anafi, Ios and Amorgos, experienced increased earthquake activity in early 2025. This increase has since subsided, and the tourist season is expected to continue as usual,” says the FCDO.
Read more here:
Is it safe to travel to Turkey or Rhodes after major earthquake injures dozens?
Tourists begin returning to beaches on Rhodes
Tuesday 3 June 2025 13:10 , Maroosha MuzaffarState broadcaster ERT reported that despite the massive 5.8-magnitude earthquake and dozens of aftershocks, tourists have begun returning to the beaches in Rhodes.
Earlier, Giorgos Hadjimarkos, regional governor of the South Aegean – that includes popular islands like Rhodes and Santorini – said assessments have so far shown only minor material damage from the earthquake in Rhodes.
He reassured tourists that there is no risk of stronger aftershocks.
Emergency teams worked through the night checking for structural damage, especially in schools and public buildings, after the initial 5.8-magnitude earthquake.
There were no injuries reported on the Greek side.
Turkish woman recounts moment earthquake shattered her home
Tuesday 3 June 2025 13:30 , Maroosha MuzaffarAn unidentified woman who lives in Armutalan in Turkey, about 13 miles from the epicentre, recounted the moment the earthquake severely damaged her home.
“I was asleep in bed with my daughter, the whole bed started shaking, the lights were flashing on and off, glass smashed,” she told The Daily Express.
She said that the plaster from the walls was torn and she saw “big cracks” as she was left “petrified”.
The woman said the earthquake “went on for a very long time and was very strong”.
Greek seismologist says no cause for concern after earthquake near Rhodes
Tuesday 3 June 2025 13:50 , Maroosha MuzaffarSeismologist Efthymios Lekkas, who heads the state-run Earthquake Risk Assessment Committee, told Mega channel there was no cause for concern.
“We are in no way worried about these [kind of] earthquakes,” he said. “This one was intense due to its depth, it covers a larger surface area, but the seismic waves do not have the energy they should have to see damage on the surface,” said, according to eKathimerini.com, a Greek daily.
Around 70 people injured, says local minister
Tuesday 3 June 2025 14:20 , Tom WatlingAround 70 people have been injured in the aftermath of an earthquake off the coast of southwest Turkey, according to local officials.
Turkey’s interior minister, Ali Yerlikaya, said some people were injured after “jumping from heights due to panic” in the city of Mugla.
He said that 14 people were treated at the scene, that eight were briefly treated and then discharged and that another 46 were still being treated in the hospital.
Earthquake specialist: We are not worried
Tuesday 3 June 2025 14:50 , Tom WatlingThe head of Greece’s state-run earthquake assessment office has told local media that he is “in no way worried” about additional risk.
“We are in no way worried about these [kind of] earthquakes,” said seismologist Efthymios Lekkas, head of the state-run Earthquake Risk Assessment Committee, to Mega channel in Greece.
“This one was intense due to its depth, it covers a larger surface area, but the seismic waves do not have the energy they should have to see damage on the surface.”
Turkey earthquake: Powerful 5.8-magnitude quake felt strongly in Rhodes as tourists wake to ‘whole building shaking’
Tuesday 3 June 2025 15:30 , Tom WatlingBelow, you can read our full piece on the earthquake that hit Turkey overnight.
Turkey earthquake: Powerful 5.8-magnitude quake felt strongly in Rhodes
Tourist in Rhodes describes hotel 'shaking' during earthquake
Tuesday 3 June 2025 16:00 , Daniel KeaneA tourist in Rhodes has described the moment his hotel shook after a magnitude 5.8 earthquake hit western Turkey and nearby Greek islands.
Matthew McCormick, a father of two from Belfast, was on holiday with his family on the island when he was woken up by a loud rumbling noise.
"We got to bed and had just fallen over to sleep and the next thing there was just this loud, rumbling noise," Mr McCormick, 35, said.
"It was very surreal, it woke me and my wife up and my first concern was for the four-year-old beside us.
"She woke up and she started to cry.
"She was terrified - I think for us at that point, it was just trying to make sure she was OK.”
Despite the shaking and disturbance overnight, Mr McCormick reported no signs of visible damage.
Magnitude 5.3 earthquake strikes south of Crete
Tuesday 3 June 2025 16:30 , Daniel KeaneA magnitude 5.3 earthquake struck off the Chrissi island off the southern coast of Crete just after 2pm on Tuesday.
Athanasios Ganas, director of research at the Geodynamic Institute, said the quake was not connected to the 5.8 magnitude earthquake which occurred off the coast of Rhodes.
He told Ekathimerini: “The morning earthquake in Rhodes and the midday one in Crete do not appear to be connected, although both are part of the Hellenic arc, on its southeastern side.
“The midday earthquake in Crete is also unrelated to the 2020 earthquake, which had a magnitude of 6.6 Richter and occurred south of Ierapetra.”
Tourist in Bodrum says she felt hotel shaking
Tuesday 3 June 2025 17:30 , Daniel KeaneA woman on holiday in Bodrum, Western Turkey, says she felt her hotel shaking during the earthquake.
“The earthquake wasn't that strong where we are in Bodrum, we are about 164km from Marmaris where the earthquake hit," she said.
"There was some shaking around 2.15am for us but it only lasted for maybe 30 seconds to a minute here so it was over quite quick.
"None of the buildings here were affected as far as I know but we have had a leak in our accommodation bathroom which we are under the impression the earthquake potentially had caused."
Earthquake in Turkey in 2023 killed more than 53,000
Tuesday 3 June 2025 18:31 , Daniel KeaneTurkey experienced one of the most severe earthquakes in recent memory in 2023, when a magnitude 7.8 quake killed more than 53,000 people.
The earthquake destroyed or damaged hundreds of thousands of buildings in 11 southern and southeastern provinces in the country.
Around 6,000 people died in northern areas of neighbouring Syria.
Why do earthquakes happen?
Tuesday 3 June 2025 19:30 , Daniel KeaneThe British Geological Survey (BGS) explains that earthquakes are the result of “sudden movement along faults within the earth”.
The outermost layer of the earth’s structure, known as the lithosphere, consists of 15 giant tectonic plates the size of continents.
These move constantly in relation to one another, drifting apart, coming together or sliding past.
Beneath the lithosphere lies the asthenosphere, which behaves like an extremely slow-moving liquid over time, meaning the plates above it never sit entirely stationary.
According to the BGS, there are three main possible drivers behind the movement of tectonic plates.
These are the warm mantle convection currents carrying them “like a conveyor belt”, oceanic ridge push causing one warmer plate to shove against and rise above another, and slab pull, which occurs when one older, colder plate sinks beneath another.
Joe Sommerlad explains in more detail below.
Recap: Where did the earthquake hit?
Tuesday 3 June 2025 20:30 , Daniel KeaneThe epicentre of the 5.8 magnitude earthquake was just outside the Turkish resort town of Marmaris. It hit at 2.17am local time.
Heavy shaking was felt in Rhodes, just 29km to the south, as well as on other islands around the Aegean Sea.
More than 280 reports made to US Geological Survey after Marmaris quake
Tuesday 3 June 2025 21:30 , Daniel KeaneA total of 282 reports were made to the United States Geological Survey (USGS) about the earthquake in Marmaris.
The USGS, which monitors and assesses global earthquakes, said there was a low likelihood of casualties and damage.
Previous earthquake in Crete forced closure of tourist sites
Tuesday 3 June 2025 22:30 , Daniel KeaneEarlier we reported how a 5.3 magnitude earthquake struck off the south coast of Crete on Tuesday afternoon.
This comes just a week after a powerful magnitude 6.1 quake occurred north-east of Crete on May 23.
No injuries or major damage were reported, but popular tourist spots the Samaria and Imbros gorges remained closed throughout the day as a precaution.
.png)
Other small earthquakes recorded in Europe on Tuesday
Tuesday 3 June 2025 23:30 , Daniel KeaneSeveral other small earthquakes were recorded throughout Europe throughout the course of Tuesday.
According to the Euro-Mediterranean Seismological Centre, a 3.6 magnitude quake was recorded in Poland just before 4pm on Tuesday, 45km north of the city of Legnica.
Separately, a 2.2 magnitude earthquake was recorded in central Italy at 2.43pm.
None of these earthquakes were powerful enough to cause any damage to buildings.
Earthquake's 'main characteristic was its depth', says expert
Wednesday 4 June 2025 00:30 , Daniel KeaneA Greek earthquake expert has said that the “main characteristic” of the quake that struck Turkey and the Greek islands was its depth.
Professor Efthymios Lekkas, president of the Greek Earthquake Planning and Protection Organisation, told Travel Weekly: “This depth allows us to say that although it was felt in a wider area of the Dodecanese and Turkey, it will not have significant effects on the surface; there will be no tsunami and, above all, there will be no rich aftershock sequence.”
Explained: Europe's earthquake hotspots
Wednesday 4 June 2025 02:00 , Daniel KeaneThe European Facilities for Earthquake Hazard and Risk (EFEHR), a non profit aimed at improving risk assessment, determines earthquake risk using multiple factors.
They include the following popular tourist destinations in their areas at heightened risk:
- Istanbul and Izmir in Turkey
- Catania and Naples in Italy
- Santorini and Athens
Earthquake that shook Istanbul earlier this year injured more than 200 residents
Wednesday 4 June 2025 03:00 , Daniel KeaneThe earthquake that struck the coast near Marmaris is one of several to hit Turkey this year.
In April, about 236 residents were injured after jumping from buildings in panic following a 6.2-magnitude earthquake that struck Istanbul.
Many residents were also forced to spend the night outdoors after powerful aftershocks.
Why earthquakes are frequent in Turkey
Wednesday 4 June 2025 04:00 , Daniel KeaneTurkey is crossed by two major fault lines, and earthquakes are frequent.
The North Anatolian Fault (NAF) stretches from eastern Turkey all the way to the Aegean Sea, while the East Anatolian Fault (EAF) runs from eastern to south-central Turkey.
At least 53,000 people were killed in a 7.8-magnitude earthquake on 6 February 2023.
This was followed by a second powerful tremor, causing significant damage to buildings and roads in southern and southeastern areas of the country.
How powerful is the earthquake that struck Turkey and Greece?
Wednesday 4 June 2025 05:00 , Daniel KeaneEarthquakes that measure 2.5 or less are usually not felt, but are still recorded by a seismograph.
According to Michigan Technological University, an earthquake measuring 5.8 on the Richter Scale - such as that which hit Greece and Turkey on Tuesday - causes “slight damage to buildings and other structures”.
Around 350 of these earthquakes occur each year.
Turkey earthquake: Is it safe to travel to Turkey and Rhodes? Simon Calder explains all
Wednesday 4 June 2025 05:24 , Shweta SharmaUK tourist in Rhodes says intense earthquake felt like 'bombs landing'
Wednesday 4 June 2025 06:00 , Shweta SharmaMatthew McCormick, a father of two from Belfast, described the moments when the magnitude 5.8 earthquake struck, saying he initially thought it was a bombing when he first woke up.
Mr McCormick, who was holidaying in Rhodes island, said: "My gut feeling was either there's been bombs landing somewhere or it's an earthquake.”
He told PA news agency that his wife and children had just fallen asleep when they heard a “loud rumbling noise”.
"And then the next minute, the whole hotel was just shaking,” he said.
"It was very surreal, it woke me and my wife up and my first concern was for the four-year-old beside us.
"She woke up and she started to cry."She was terrified - I think for us at that point, it was just trying to make sure she was OK.
"I tried to have a look at the roof, and it didn't look like there were any cracks or anything appearing in the roof.
"I figured that we were safe enough."
Turkish woman recounts moment earthquake shattered her home
Wednesday 4 June 2025 06:30 , Shweta SharmaAn unidentified woman who lives in Armutalan in Turkey, about 13 miles from the epicentre, recounted the moment the earthquake severely damaged her home.
“I was asleep in bed with my daughter, the whole bed started shaking, the lights were flashing on and off, glass smashed,” she told The Daily Express.
She said that the plaster from the walls was torn and she saw “big cracks” as she was left “petrified”.
The woman said the earthquake “went on for a very long time and was very strong”.
No major damage reported after earthquake
Wednesday 4 June 2025 07:00 , Shweta SharmaNo major damage has been reported in Turkey or Rhodes after a 5.8 magnitude earthquake caused panic among residents, with some people jumping out of buildings.
The quake struck about 29km north of Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese islands near the Turkey border, at around 2.17am local time on Tuesday at a depth of 68km, according to the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre.
At least one person, a teenage girl, died in an earthquake-related incident, and 69 others were injured as they attempted to jump off the buildings.
Turkish interior minister Ali Yerlikaya said on X that a 14-year-old girl was taken to the hospital and died there after what he said was an anxiety attack.
Earthquakes have caused major panic among residents, with some even jumping off buildings to save themselves – a fear intensified since the 2023 earthquake that killed thousands in Turkey and Syria.
At least 53,000 people were killed in a 7.8-magnitude earthquake on 6 February 2023 followed by a second powerful tremor.
The earthquakes destroyed scores of buildings and roads in 11 southern and southeastern provinces. The same incident killed 6,000 people in neighbouring Syria.
Earthquake's 'main characteristic was its depth', says expert
Wednesday 4 June 2025 07:30 , Shweta SharmaA Greek earthquake expert has said that the “main characteristic” of the quake that struck Turkey and the Greek islands was its depth.
Professor Efthymios Lekkas, president of the Greek Earthquake Planning and Protection Organisation, told Travel Weekly: “This depth allows us to say that although it was felt in a wider area of the Dodecanese and Turkey, it will not have significant effects on the surface; there will be no tsunami and, above all, there will be no rich aftershock sequence.”
Is it safe to travel to Turkey or Rhodes after major earthquake injures dozens?
Wednesday 4 June 2025 08:00 , Shweta SharmaHolidaymakers in southwest Turkey and neighbouring islands in Greece were shaken awake this morning by a strong earthquake.
In the early hours of Tuesday, a 5.8-magnitude quake struck just south of the Turkish resort of Marmaris. Tremors were also felt across the water on the Greek island of Rhodes.
Flights to and from Dalaman Airport are operating as usual, and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is not advising against travel to the area.
But is it safe to go, and what are your rights if you have a trip booked? Here’s everything we know.
Is it safe to travel to Turkey or Rhodes after major earthquake injures dozens?
Recap: Where did the earthquake hit?
Wednesday 4 June 2025 10:40 , Shweta SharmaThe epicentre of the 5.8 magnitude earthquake was just outside the Turkish resort town of Marmaris.
The earthquake hit at 2.17am local time on Tuesday at a depth of 68km (42 miles).
Heavy shaking was felt in Rhodes, just 29km to the south, as well as on other islands around the Aegean Sea
.A total of 282 emergency reports were made to the United States Geological Survey (USGS) about the earthquake in Marmaris.
Turkish authorities said a 14-year-old girl died in an earthquake-related incident and 69 others were injured, mostly amid scenes of panic as the quake struck.
Residents and officials in the affected region have described varying degrees of minor damage, including cracks appearing in homes and small leaks, but the earthquake otherwise caused no major destruction.
Moment 5.8-magnitude quake rocks popular Rhodes hotel
Wednesday 4 June 2025 08:40 , Shweta SharmaWhy do earthquakes happen?
Wednesday 4 June 2025 09:20 , Shweta SharmaThe British Geological Survey (BGS) explains that earthquakes like the 2023 Turkey earthquake, which so often have devastating consequences, are the result of “sudden movement along faults within the earth”.
The outermost layer of the earth’s structure, known as the lithosphere, consists of 15 giant tectonic plates the size of continents, which move constantly in relation to one another, drifting apart, coming together or sliding past.
Beneath the lithosphere lies the asthenosphere, which behaves like an extremely slow-moving liquid over time, meaning the plates above it never sit entirely stationary.
The BGS explains that there are three main possible drivers behind the movement of tectonic plates: warm mantle convection currents carrying them “like a conveyor belt”, oceanic ridge push causing one warmer plate to shove against and rise above another, and slab pull, which occurs when one older, colder plate sinks beneath another.
Even just a few centimetres of movement a year is enough to cause significant deformation along the boundaries of these plates, which – according to geologist Henry Fielding Reid’s “elastic rebound theory”, developed in response to the notorious San Francisco quake of 1906 – will eventually exceed the frictional force holding the rocks together, causing sudden slips to occur along a fault line.
This event releases the built up pressure or “elastic strain” energy as seismic waves, which shudder through the earth and cause the ground to shake at surface level.
Earthquake in Turkey in 2023 killed more than 53,000
Wednesday 4 June 2025 10:00 , Shweta SharmaTurkey experienced one of the most severe earthquakes in recent memory in 2023, when a magnitude 7.8 quake killed more than 53,000 people.
The earthquake destroyed or damaged hundreds of thousands of buildings in 11 southern and southeastern provinces in the country.
Around 6,000 people died in northern areas of neighbouring Syria.
Turkey lies close to the meeting point of the Eurasian and Arabian tectonic plates, placing it on the frontline of potential seismic activity.
CCTV footage captures restaurant-goers running as earthquake strikes
Wednesday 4 June 2025 11:15 , Shweta SharmaA CCTV clip from a restaurant in Marmaris in Turkey, the epicentre of the 5.8-magnitude earthquake, showed people running away in panic.
Tables and chairs shook violently as people began to leave in a hurry.
A look at previous earthquakes in Turkey
Wednesday 4 June 2025 11:40 , Shweta SharmaEarthquakes are relatively frequent in Turkey as the country is crossed by two major fault lines. This year alone, the country has witnessed three deadly earthquakes.
At least 53,000 people were killed in a 7.8-magnitude earthquake on 6 February 2023 followed by a second powerful tremor. The earthquakes destroyed scores of buildings and roads in 11 southern and southeastern provinces. The same incident killed 6,000 people in neighbouring Syria.
Last month a powerful 6.1-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Crete in Greece, prompting the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre to issue an alert for a possible tsunami. Some popular sites on the island were closed amid landslides, but no significant injuries or damage were reported.
In April this year, about 236 residents were injured after jumping from buildings in panic following a 6.2-magnitude earthquake that struck Istanbul. Many residents were also forced to spend the night outdoors after powerful aftershocks.
UK tourist in Rhodes says intense earthquake felt like 'bombs landing'
Matthew McCormick, a father of two from Belfast, described the moments when the magnitude 5.8 earthquake struck, saying he initially thought it was a bombing when he first woke up.
Mr McCormick, who was holidaying in Rhodes island, said: "My gut feeling was either there's been bombs landing somewhere or it's an earthquake.”
Matthew McCormick is currently on holiday in Rhodes (Matthew McCormick/PA)
He told PA news agency that his wife and children had just fallen asleep when they heard a “loud rumbling noise”.
"And then the next minute, the whole hotel was just shaking,” he said.
"It was very surreal, it woke me and my wife up and my first concern was for the four-year-old beside us.
"She woke up and she started to cry."She was terrified - I think for us at that point, it was just trying to make sure she was OK.
"I tried to have a look at the roof, and it didn't look like there were any cracks or anything appearing in the roof.
"I figured that we were safe enough."
Panic injuries surpass earthquake damage in Turkey
Wednesday 4 June 2025 13:30 , Shweta SharmaDozens of locals were taken to the hospital for treatment in Mugla in Turkey after a 5.8-magnitude earthquake struck near the popular holiday destination of Marmaris.
Most people suffered injuries while trying to rush outside their homes or jumping from buildings.
Acar Unlu, the mayor of the Turkish resort town of Marmaris, told NTV broadcast on Tuesday that the region was jolted by the earthquake, prompting disaster management teams to be dispatched to assess the damage.
The region was struck by multiple aftershocks ranging from tiny tremors up to 3.2 magnitude, with epicentres near Marmaris and the Greek island of Rhodes, shortly after the powerful earthquake jolted the islands.
In April, more than 150 people were injured after jumping from buildings during a 6.2-magnitude earthquake below the Sea of Marmara near Istanbul.
British tourist says she felt her hotel shaking
Wednesday 4 June 2025 14:30 , Shweta SharmaSalem Swan, a 25-year-old carer from Sunderland who is on holiday in Bodrum in western Turkey, felt her hotel shaking.
"The earthquake wasn't that strong where we are in Bodrum, we are about 164km from Marmaris where the earthquake hit," she told PA.
"There was some shaking around 2.15am for us but it only lasted for maybe 30 seconds to a minute here so it was over quite quick.
"None of the buildings here were affected as far as I know but we have had a leak in our accommodation bathroom which we are under the impression the earthquake potentially had caused."
Others closer to the epicentre of the quake took to social media to say it was an intense experience.
"Nothing like being woken up while on the 5th floor building in Rhodes, while an earthquake is violently shaking the building! Something I can tick off the list," said X user Steven.
"Rather surreal to feel the whole hotel move," added another holidaymaker.
Why do earthquakes happen?
Wednesday 4 June 2025 15:31 , Shweta SharmaThe British Geological Survey (BGS) explains that earthquakes like these, which so often have devastating consequences, are the result of “sudden movement along faults within the earth”.
The outermost layer of the earth’s structure, known as the lithosphere, consists of 15 giant tectonic plates the size of continents, which move constantly in relation to one another, drifting apart, coming together or sliding past.
Beneath the lithosphere lies the asthenosphere, which behaves like an extremely slow-moving liquid over time, meaning the plates above it never sit entirely stationary.
Read our full report.
Is it safe to travel to Turkey and Rhodes?
Wednesday 4 June 2025 16:31 , Shweta SharmaRecap: Where did the earthquake hit?
Wednesday 4 June 2025 17:15 , Jane DaltonThe epicentre of the 5.8 magnitude earthquake was just outside the Turkish resort town of Marmaris. It hit at 2.17am local time.
Heavy shaking was felt in Rhodes, just 29km to the south, as well as on other islands around the Aegean Sea.
Teenage girl who died 'known for diligence and cheerfulness'
Wednesday 4 June 2025 17:31 , Jane DaltonThe identity of a teenage girl who died in the earthquake has been revealed by a Turkish minister, who said she was taken to hospital because she suffered a panic attack.
Interior minister Ali Yerlikaya said Afranur Günlü, 14, died in hospital in the city of Fethiye, “despite all interventions”.
The teenager was known for her diligence and cheerfulness, according to website Xbodrum.com.
“This sudden loss plunged the entire district, especially her family, friends and teachers, into mourning,” it reported.
Girl, 14, 'suffered intense fear'
Wednesday 4 June 2025 17:40 , Jane DaltonThe 14-year-old girl who died during the earthquake became intensely scared, prompting a panic attack, it was reported.
Xbodrum.com says: “According to the information provided by the authorities, Afra Nur Günlü had a panic attack due to the intense fear she experienced during the earthquake.
“Although she was taken to the hospital, the interventions were unsuccessful and the young girl lost her life.
“This tragic event once again revealed how serious the effects of natural disasters can be, not only physical but also psychological.”
Other small earthquakes recorded in Europe
Wednesday 4 June 2025 18:15 , Jane DaltonSeveral other small earthquakes were recorded throughout Europe throughout Tuesday.
According to the Euro-Mediterranean Seismological Centre, a 3.6-magnitude quake was recorded in Poland, 45km north of the city of Legnica, just before 4pm on Tuesday.
Separately, a 2.2-magnitude earthquake was recorded in central Italy at 2.43pm.
None was powerful enough to damage buildings.
How wild fires devastated Rhodes
Wednesday 4 June 2025 18:45 , Jane DaltonThe quake centred on western Turkey, but people on the nearby Greek island of Rhodes also felt heavy shaking.
Two years ago, areas of Rhodes were devastated during the peak holiday season by fires, which wiped out natural habitats and wrecked livelihoods:
After the wildfires: Greece prays for tourism as islanders sift through the ashes
Nearby Crete hit by quake two weeks ago
Wednesday 4 June 2025 19:30 , Jane DaltonA powerful earthquake hit northeast of Crete – about 200 nautical miles from Rhodes – less than two weeks ago.
Tourists were urged to avoid the coast when the tremors prompted warnings of a possible tsunami in Greece and beyond - though this failed to materialise.
Crete earthquake live: Aftershocks continue after 6.1 quake, tourist sites closed
Unconfirmed report of new potential quake
Wednesday 4 June 2025 19:55 , Jane DaltonThere is an unconfirmed report of a possible fresh earthquake in Turkey.
The Euro-Mediterranean Seismological Centre said witnesses had reported shaking just after 8.30pm local time.
It said a quake of magnitude 3.1 happened south of Silivri.
The organisation stressed the information was “automatic crowdsourced detection” that had not yet been seismically verified.
#Earthquake (#deprem) possibly felt 21 sec ago in #Turkey. Felt it? Tell us via:
— EMSC (@LastQuake) June 4, 2025
📱https://t.co/QMSpuj6Z2H
🌐https://t.co/AXvOM7I4Th
🖥https://t.co/wPtMW5ND1t
⚠ Automatic crowdsourced detection, not seismically verified yet. More info soon! pic.twitter.com/W7bES1C7CH
Hotel 'rocked like baby's cradle'
Wednesday 4 June 2025 20:35 , Jane DaltonA holidaymaker on Rhodes said her hotel “rocked like a baby's cradle” during Tuesday’s quake.
Just experienced an earthquake on the last night of our holiday in Rhodes! That was crazy. Hotel rocked like a baby's cradle!! Hope everyone is OK 🙏
— Emma Heatherington (@EmmaLouWriter) June 2, 2025
Panic injuries surpass earthquake damage
Wednesday 4 June 2025 21:14 , Jane DaltonDozens of locals were taken to hospital for treatment after the 5.8-magnitude earthquake struck near the popular holiday destination of Marmaris in Turkey.
Most people suffered injuries while trying to rush outside their homes or jumping from buildings or balconies.
Disaster-management teams were sent to assess the damage.
The region was struck by a string of aftershocks.
Earthquake's 'main characteristic was its depth', says expert
Wednesday 4 June 2025 22:24 , Jane DaltonAn earthquake expert says the main characteristic of the quake that struck Turkey and the Greek islands was its depth.
Professor Efthymios Lekkas, president of the Greek Earthquake Planning and Protection Organisation, told Travel Weekly: “This depth allows us to say that although it was felt in a wider area of the Dodecanese and Turkey, it will not have significant effects on the surface; there will be no tsunami and, above all, there will be no rich aftershock sequence.”
Watch: Is it safe to travel to Turkey and Rhodes?
Wednesday 4 June 2025 23:55 , Jane DaltonTurkey earthquake: Is it safe to travel to Turkey and Rhodes? Simon Calder explains
Tourists wake to ‘whole building shaking'
01:15 , Jane DaltonRecap: How events unfolded:
Turkey earthquake: Powerful 5.8-magnitude quake felt strongly in Rhodes
Why earthquakes are frequent in Turkey
02:45 , Jane DaltonTurkey is crossed by two major fault lines, and earthquakes are frequent.
The North Anatolian Fault (NAF) stretches from eastern Turkey all the way to the Aegean Sea, while the East Anatolian Fault (EAF) runs from eastern to south-central Turkey.
At least 53,000 people were killed in a 7.8-magnitude earthquake on 6 February 2023.
This was followed by a second powerful tremor, causing significant damage to buildings and roads in southern and southeastern areas of the country.
Moment earthquake struck
04:00 , Jane DaltonCats leapt in fear, swimming pools rippled and buildings shook in Marmaris in Turkey during the 5.8-magnitude earthquake.
A teenager died and 69 others were injured after a 5.8-magnitude earthquake struck off Turkey’s west coast near Marmaris at 2:17 a.m.
— Volcaholic 🌋 (@volcaholic1) June 3, 2025
Many were hurt jumping from buildings in panic. The quake was also felt in nearby regions, including the Greek island of Rhodes. pic.twitter.com/24IVDFddyT
