At least 18 dead in Turkey quake
(CNN) -- A moderate earthquake has hit villages in northeastern Turkey, reportedly killing at least 18 people and injuring 50, 20 of them seriously.
The quake struck about 1:30 a.m. Friday (6:30 p.m. ET) and was centered near the town of Dogu Beyazit, local officials said.
The cities of Agri and Igdir were also affected by the earthquake, with the village of Yigimcal hardest hit.
Local officials say they do not expect the death toll to rise because many people were away at their summer homes, but aid operations are underway and tents are being set up.
Turkey is the frequent victim of quakes. In March, nine people were killed when an earthquake struck northeastern turkey.
