On Wednesday morning, Taiwan was hit by an extremely powerful earthquake measuring 7.4 magnitude. This was the strongest quake to strike the island in 25 years.
According to CNN, the massive tremor shook the eastern coast near the city of Hualien. Its force brought down several buildings, triggered landslides, and injured over 700 people across Taiwan. Tragically, at least 4 people were killed, including a hiker.
The US Geological Survey revealed that the earthquake struck at 7:58 am local time about 11 miles south of Hualien city. It originated over 21 miles deep underground, according to experts. After the initial violent shaking, Taiwan was rocked by a series of strong aftershocks that continued to rattle the island.
Across Hualien County and other areas, the powerful quake caused widespread damage. Over 100 buildings collapsed or sustained serious harm. Entire apartment complexes crumbled, trapping residents inside. Some videos posted online showed rescue teams working urgently to free people from the wreckage.
Major transportation routes were also severely impacted. A key highway along the east coast had to be shut down due to rockfalls and landslides covering the road. Parts of the highway tunnels even cracked open from the shaking.
In the wake of the disaster, over 91,000 homes lost power as utility crews scrambled to make repairs. Additionally, schools, offices, and flights were suspended as continuing aftershocks made the situation dangerous.
Tsunami warnings were issued for Taiwan and nearby regions like Japan after the initial quake struck. Though the tsunami waves ended up being relatively small, authorities had urged coastal evacuations as a precaution.
Officials warned that strong aftershocks around magnitude 7.0 could keep occurring for several days. Military forces were deployed to assist with search, rescue, and relief efforts across the impacted areas.
Despite its location in an extremely earthquake-prone region, a quake of this magnitude is rare and especially devastating for Taiwan. The island is still recovering from the catastrophic effects of Wednesday’s powerful tremor.