7.0 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Taiwan’s Northeast
A strong earthquake measuring 7.0 on the Richter scale struck off the northeastern coast of Taiwan on Saturday, shaking large parts of the island, including the capital Taipei. The quake was located near the coastal city of Yilan and occurred offshore at a considerable depth, which helped reduce surface-level damage.
Tremors Felt Across the Island
Residents in several cities reported strong shaking, with buildings swaying for several seconds. Offices and residential complexes in Taipei experienced noticeable tremors, prompting people to move outdoors as a precaution. Local authorities said the earthquake was felt across much of northern and eastern Taiwan. Despite its intensity, there were no immediate reports of large-scale destruction or fatalities.
Limited Damage and Emergency Response
Preliminary assessments indicated only minor damage in some areas, including temporary power disruptions and small structural cracks. Emergency services were placed on alert, and inspection teams were dispatched to assess roads, public buildings, and critical infrastructure. Officials said power was restored in affected areas within a short time, and transport services continued to operate normally.
Aftershock Monitoring and Safety Advisory
Authorities warned that aftershocks could follow and advised residents to remain cautious. No tsunami warning was issued, as the quake’s characteristics did not pose a wider coastal threat. Taiwan is located along a major seismic zone and frequently experiences earthquakes, prompting authorities to maintain high disaster preparedness standards.
