1942 Tokat-Niksar

On December 20, 1942, a powerful earthquake measuring 7.0 Mw struck the Tokat-Niksar region, causing widespread devastation and claiming approximately 3,000 lives according to official records. The catastrophe had a profound impact on the town of Erbaa, which was left in ruins.

Prominent newspapers of the era, including Beyoğlu, En Son Dakika, Cumhuriyet, Haber, İkdam, Son Posta, Tan, Ulus, and Vakit, extensively documented the severity of the disaster and the ensuing humanitarian crisis. Headlines vividly described the scale of destruction, with Haber newspaper reporting, "Major Earthquake Disaster in Erbaa: Town Almost Completely Destroyed, About One Thousand Dead Initially Reported." İkdam highlighted ongoing relief efforts, noting, "Relief teams and supplies have been dispatched to Erbaa from all directions."

The press provided detailed accounts of rescue operations and the plight of survivors. Newspapers conveyed the dire situation through rich, descriptive reporting, underscoring the struggles of displaced residents forced to reside in tents and makeshift shelters. Son Posta emphasized the efficient organization and timely distribution of vital supplies, including food and tents, sent from neighbouring provinces and Tokat itself, reflecting both the magnitude of the disaster and the unity demonstrated in the relief efforts.

Date: December 20, 1942

Magnitude: 7.0 Mw

Fatalities (official figures): 3000

Damaged Buildings (official figures): NA