ANKARA, Turkey — A moderately strong earthquake struck eastern Turkey on Wednesday, causing widespread panic, officials said. There were no immediate reports of any serious injury or damage.
The earthquake with a magnitude 5.9 struck the town of Kale in Malatya province at 10:46 a.m. (07:46 GMT), according to the government-run Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency, or AFAD. It was felt in the nearby cities of Diyarbakir, Elazig, Erzincan and Tunceli, HaberTurk television reported.
“We have not received any reports of any problems so far,” Malatya Mayor Sami Er told the state-run Anadolu Agency, adding that officials were still assessing possible damage in more remote areas.
People rushed out of homes and offices in panic throughout the region, HaberTurk reported. Many were waiting in the streets and parks, reluctant to return indoors. Schools were ordered closed in Elazig.
Malatya was one 11 provinces that was devastated by a powerful earthquake that hit struck parts of Turkey and northern Syria last year. More than 53,000 people were killed in Turkey.
