Two successive earthquakes with moment magnitudes of M_w = 7.7 (focal depth = 8.6 km) and M_w = 7.6 (focal depth = 7 km) occurred approximately within 9 h on February 6, 2023, in Türkiye, respectively. The epicenters were the Pazarcık and Elbistan districts of Kahramanmaraş. Both earthquakes occurred in the East Anatolian Fault Zone, one of Türkiye’s two major active fault systems. Between these two severe earthquakes, there was one more big aftershock with a moment magnitude of 6.6, the epicenter of which was in the Nurdağı District of Gaziantep. Then, on February 20, 2023, another aftershock earthquake with a magnitude of M_w = 6.4 occurred in Yayladağı district of Hatay. As a result of the earthquakes, severe damage occurred in several provinces and districts with a population of around 15 million, and more than 50,000 people have lost their lives. This study presents on-site geotechnical and structural investigations by a team of researchers after the Kahramanmaraş earthquakes. It summarizes the performance of the building environments as a result of on-site assessments, taking into account observed structural damage, local site conditions, and strong ground motion data. The possible causes of the observed damage are addressed in detail. These earthquakes once again revealed the common deficiencies of existing reinforced concrete structures in Türkiye, such as poor material quality, poor workmanship, unsuitability of reinforcement detailing, and inadequate earthquake-resistant construction techniques. Precast concrete and masonry structures in the region were also severely damaged during the earthquakes due to insufficient engineering service, poor materials, deficiencies during construction, etc.

This paper provides a comprehensive examination of post-earthquake structural damage assessment efforts following the Kahramanmaras, Turkey, earthquakes that occurred on February 6, 2023. Drawing on global damage assessment protocols, the study compares and analyzes the methods implemented in the aftermath of the earthquakes, offering insights into lessons learned and challenges faced. The analysis of objections raised regarding the assessment efforts reveals significant changes in structures with moderate and severe damage, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement in assessment strategies. The paper advocates for a realistic and two-stage application method, consideration of crack type and cause, and active involvement of local communities in the assessment process. Furthermore, the study identifies key issues in the current earthquake damage assessment methodology and proposes solutions, including a more precise classification system, regular volunteer training, consideration of secondary disaster risks, and effective communication methods. The paper concludes by underscoring the importance of effective damage assessment in disaster management, addressing objections from the affected population, and continual enhancement of strategies to improve resilience in earthquake-prone regions.