In August 1999 there was a big earthquake in Istanbul. Can anyone tell me how many victims there were at that time? I'm writing a story and I would like to be precise in the facts I mention. Thanks.

Trudy the earthquake epicenter was in Izmit. I remember it well. There was a documentary on UK TV about the geological fault, the devastation and the thousands that were killed. If I remember correctly they pulled someone out of the rubble around 10 days after the quake.

I know it was felt in Istanbul, as my friend who now lives on the Asian side, was living near the airport at the time and his building moved around 1m.

It is all part of the same geological fault and runs through Istanbul. Therefore Istanbul itself is at great risk of a major earthquake.

I too would be interested to hear about peoples personal experiences of this quake.

Trudy, I tried to add a link here but it did not work. You can find much about it just by googling "Izmit Earthquake"

Thanks Libralady, I found the information I need with your help.

It was because of this devastating earthquake, that made me want to become part of a "rapid response team". Unfortunately I could not join because of work, you have to be able to go at very short notice. Most rapid responsers have a case packed ready.