Taiwan on High Alert as Aftershocks Rattle Region Amid Lunar New Year Preparations

In the wake of recent seismic activity, experts are urging vigilance as Taiwan experiences a series of aftershocks following a significant earthquake on Tuesday. The Central Weather Administration (CWA) reported two magnitude 5.7 aftershocks over the weekend, both emanating from Tainan’s Dongshan District. These tremors, recorded on Saturday night and yesterday morning, are part of a larger sequence of seismic events that have rattled the region, bringing the total number of aftershocks since the initial quake to 110. The aftershocks have not only been felt locally, with a notable 31 of them being experienced nationwide, but they have also slightly affected transportation services, including operations of the Taiwan Railway Corporation and high-speed rail services. Despite these disruptions, officials have assured that the infrastructure is designed to withstand such events. Seismologists have identified the epicenters of the recent aftershocks as moving westward, which raises concerns about potential impacts on nearby critical infrastructures such as the Zengwen Reservoir. Professor Wen Yi-ying from National Chung Cheng University highlighted that the area surrounding the reservoir is prone to seismic activity due to the presence of faults, urging residents to remain cautious. Former Seismological Center director Kuo Kai-wen explained that the recent earthquakes have been precipitated by movement along the Lunhou Fault, a geological fault line that stretches across the region. Although this fault has shown a lack of significant seismic activity in recent years, it is currently under high strain, suggesting a potential for larger quakes in the future. Experts emphasize the importance of monitoring this area closely to mitigate risks. The CWA has advised the public on safety measures during earthquakes, stressing the importance of immediate evacuation in the event of alerts from the Public Warning System. Individuals are encouraged to protect their heads and necks and to avoid areas that could pose additional dangers during seismic events. As Taiwan prepares to celebrate the Lunar New Year, these unsettling tremors serve as a reminder of the region's geological volatility. With the ongoing aftershocks, authorities and residents alike are on alert, highlighting the need for preparedness in the face of potential future seismic activity.