A powerful earthquake registering at 6.4 magnitude struck off the eastern coast of Taiwan, raising concerns of a potential tsunami in the region. The tremor occurred around 7 PM local time on Wednesday, at a depth of 30 kilometers (approximately 18.5 miles), as reported by the China Earthquake Networks Centre. Fortunately, there have been no immediate reports of any damage.
In response to the quake, transport authorities implemented safety measures, including slowing down train services to conduct checks, particularly in Hualien County, where the tremors were felt most strongly. The earthquake was detected approximately 71 kilometers (about 44.1 miles) south of Hualien City, as noted by the United States Geological Survey.
Taiwan, home to 23 million residents, is familiar with seismic activity due to its location along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” which is known for being an area with frequent earthquakes. Although the Central Weather Administration assessed the magnitude at 6.4, the US Geological Survey documented it as 5.9. Variations in reported magnitude are common because of differences in instruments and detection sites.
Historically, Taiwan has faced severe earthquakes, with the most devastating being a magnitude 7.7 quake in 1999 that resulted in over 2,400 fatalities. This disaster prompted substantial changes, including stricter building codes, improved emergency response, and public education on earthquake safety. As a result, the level of damage from earthquakes today has been significantly reduced, showcasing the effectiveness of these measures.
Continued monitoring and updates are expected as authorities assess the situation further and provide the latest information regarding this seismic event. It serves as a reminder of Taiwan’s resilience in the face of natural disasters and its commitment to safety preparedness.