4 dead as big earthquake hits Taiwan, strongest in 25 years

Early morning tremors rocked Taiwan as a powerful earthquake measuring 7.4 on the Richter Scale struck on April 3, 2023, according to reports from the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The quake's epicenter was reported to be south-southwest of Hualien, located on the east coast of Taiwan, hitting at approximately 7:58 am local time.

Effects of the earthquake were also felt in the Taiwanese capital of Taipei, causing widespread alarm and disruptions. Japan immediately issued a tsunami alert for its Ryukyu chain of islands, including Okinawa, due to the seismic activity. Reports indicated a tsunami of at least 30 centimeters had reached Yonaguni Island, situated around 110 kilometers (70 miles) from Taiwan.

58 aftershocks reported so far

After the initial earthquake in Taiwan, there have been 58 aftershocks, with two registering over six magnitude. Taipei mainly experienced travel disruptions but is gradually recovering.

The most significant impact occurred in Hualien, an eastern coast county renowned for tourism and its large military presence. Authorities are inspecting military equipment due to concerns about potential damage. Additionally, around 80,000 homes in Hualien lack electricity. Collapses of roads, bridges, and a tunnel have caused substantial disruption.

The military is collaborating with first responders to reach affected areas, including dealing with landslides, thankfully occurring in sparsely populated zones. The city is facing severe damage, with numerous buildings tilting precariously and under close monitoring for safety.

Summary of events so far

• The earthquake struck Taiwan's eastern coast at 7:58 am local time on Wednesday, being the strongest quake in 25 years. It caused buildings to collapse and triggered landslides, mainly in Hualien County.
• At least four people have been reported killed in Hualien County due to the earthquake, according to the national fire agency.
• Tsunami warnings were issued for Taiwan, southern Japan, and northern Philippines initially but have since been lifted.
• The quake's epicenter was 25km southeast of Hualien, with magnitudes reported differently by Japan's meteorological agency (7.7) and Taiwan's earthquake monitoring agency (7.2).
• Multiple buildings have tilted or collapsed in Hualien, with reports of people trapped inside. Over 50 injuries were reported initially.
• More than 87,000 people across Taiwan are without power, and train lines and infrastructure have suffered damage.
• Taipei experienced violent shaking, with aftershocks ongoing. Taipei's subway briefly suspended service, and businesses and schools sent staff home.
• TSMC, a key chip manufacturer, evacuated its production lines. Japan's Meterological Agency warned of potential aftershocks. Internet outages were reported in parts of Taiwan after the quake.

The quake, described as the strongest in Taiwan since 1999, led to aftershocks persisting between 8 and 9 am local time. Social media platforms were inundated with videos and images capturing the quake's destructive impact, showcasing trembling buildings and bridges. Reports also surfaced of individuals trapped in buildings, damage to water towers, and internet outages across the island.

Both Taiwan and the surrounding regions, including the Philippines, are located within the seismic hotspot known as the Pacific Ring of Fire, prone to frequent seismic and volcanic activities. The Philippines, in response, warned of potential tsunami risks along its Batanes island group following the earthquake.

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