Taiwan Shaken by 6.0 Magnitude Earthquake, 27 Injured and Major Disruptions Reported

A 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck Taiwan early Tuesday, shaking the island and injuring at least 27 individuals, according to the US Geological Survey. The quake, which had its epicenter located about 12 kilometers north of Yujing in southern Taiwan, was felt strongly in the capital, Taipei, where residents reported tremors lasting nearly a minute. The quake triggered landslides and caused significant structural damage, including the collapse of ceilings in multiple homes. Local authorities confirmed that firefighters successfully rescued three individuals, including a child, who were trapped in a collapsed building in the Nanxi district. Reports also indicated injuries from falling debris and incidents of individuals being rescued from stalled elevators. In the wake of the earthquake, Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration reported over 50 aftershocks, with the initial quake’s magnitude initially recorded at 6.4. The National Fire Agency indicated that while several homes sustained severe damage, there were no reports of major devastation across the island. However, the health ministry tallied a total of 27 injuries linked to the quake. Classes and office work were suspended in affected areas, particularly in Nanxi and Dapu Township in Chiayi County, where roadways were blocked due to landslides and fallen rocks. Local officials reported that some roads in Dapu were severely damaged, rendering them impassable, and disruptions to water and electricity supplies were also noted. In a precautionary move, Taiwanese semiconductor manufacturer TSMC evacuated workers from certain factories in central and southern Taiwan as the quake unfolded. The company, known for its critical role in the global tech supply chain, acted swiftly to ensure the safety of its employees. Taiwan is situated in a seismically active region, positioned at the convergence of two tectonic plates along the Pacific Ring of Fire. Earthquakes are a frequent occurrence, with the last major tremor occurring in April 2024. That 7.4-magnitude quake resulted in at least 17 fatalities and significant destruction, marking it as one of the most serious seismic events in recent history. The 1999 earthquake, which claimed approximately 2,400 lives, remains the deadliest natural disaster in Taiwan’s history. In response to its history of seismic activity, Taiwan has implemented stringent building codes aimed at enhancing quake-resistance in construction. This includes the integration of steel bars designed to allow buildings to sway in response to ground movement. Furthermore, Taiwan has developed an advanced early warning system, employing cutting-edge technology to alert residents of seismic activity within seconds. This system has been continually refined, utilizing tools such as smartphones and high-speed data connections, ensuring that even the most remote regions of the island are included in safety measures. As the island begins to recover from this latest seismic event, the community remains vigilant, knowing the importance of preparedness in the face of nature’s unpredictable power.