The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued a warning to UK tourists following a powerful 6.2-magnitude earthquake that struck the Sea of Marmara on April 23, 2025. The tremor, which was felt strongly in Istanbul, has left at least 151 people injured, with authorities urging visitors to exercise caution and be prepared for possible aftershocks.
In a statement released on Thursday, the FCDO highlighted that Turkey is prone to frequent seismic activity, and many regions regularly experience earthquakes of varying magnitudes. The latest earthquake, though significant, is not an isolated event, and the risk of further tremors remains high.
“Many parts of Turkey regularly experience earthquakes and tremors. These can be high magnitude, cause damage to infrastructure, and pose a risk to life,” the FCDO noted. “Be aware of the risk of aftershocks, and follow local advice on safety measures. For the latest seismic activity, refer to the Turkey Disaster and Emergency Management Authority’s (AFAD) earthquake page.”
The FCDO further advised UK travelers to stay informed and take necessary precautions, including following advice from local authorities, tour operators, and accommodation providers. The guidance also directs travelers to review the US Federal Emergency Management Agency’s earthquake safety recommendations for more detailed steps on how to respond before, during, and after an earthquake.
The warning comes on the heels of a catastrophic series of earthquakes that affected southeastern Turkey and northern Syria in February 2025, with significant loss of life and widespread destruction. In response, the UK government has provided humanitarian aid and continues to support international relief efforts in the region.
Istanbul’s Vulnerability to Larger Quakes
The recent earthquake has sparked increased concerns among seismologists and the public, especially regarding the potential for a much larger quake in the near future. Istanbul, located near the North Anatolian Fault, has been long expected to face a significant seismic event, with estimates predicting a magnitude of 7.0 or higher.
One Reddit user speculated that the recent tremor might be a precursor to this long-anticipated “big one.” “Each whole number on the Richter scale is 10 times more ground-shaking and releases 32 times more energy,” they wrote. “This one wasn’t the mega-earthquake, but it could be a warning.”
Another user reflected on the earthquake as an opportunity for authorities to better prepare for future events. “This earthquake should be considered a blessing,” they said, “because it might prompt the authorities to take the countermeasures needed before the big one hits.”
UK Tourists Contemplate Cancelling Trips
As the region grapples with the aftermath of the earthquake, UK tourists are increasingly reconsidering their travel plans to Turkey. Many are wondering whether it is safe to proceed with upcoming vacations, particularly given the potential for further seismic activity. Some have already begun exploring options to cancel or postpone their trips, seeking reassurance from the FCDO and local travel operators.
The FCDO’s update also mentions the devastating impact of the February 2025 earthquakes, which affected multiple cities in Turkey and Syria. These included Kahramanmaraş, Hatay, Gaziantep, and Adıyaman. The UK’s response included immediate humanitarian aid, which continues to support both Turkish and Syrian communities in need.
As more aftershocks are expected in the coming days, the FCDO urges UK citizens to stay informed, exercise caution, and prioritize safety while in Turkey. For further updates, tourists are encouraged to monitor official advisories and take the necessary precautions to protect themselves in the event of additional seismic activity.
