Taiwan Earthquake of 7.2 Magnitude: Buildings Collapsed, Tsunami Warnings Issued
An intense earthquake rattled Taiwan in the early hours of April 3, leaving devastation in its wake as multiple buildings collapsed and the entire island felt the tremors, as reported by AP. Taiwan’s earthquake monitoring agency recorded the quake at a magnitude of 7.2, while the US Geological Survey placed it slightly higher at 7.5. The aftermath prompted authorities in Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines to issue tsunami warnings and advise evacuations for coastal residents.
The head of Taipei’s Seismology Centre, Wu Chien-fu, described the seismic event as the most powerful in 25 years. “The earthquake is close to land and it’s shallow. It’s felt all over Taiwan and offshore islands… it’s the strongest in 25 years since the (1999) earthquake,” Wu told reporters, referencing the devastating 1999 earthquake that claimed 2,400 lives.
Witnesses in Shanghai reported feeling the quake, while tremors were also detected in various areas of China’s Fujian province, including Fuzhou, Ningde, Quanzhou, and Xiamen, according to local Chinese media cited by Reuters.
Damage Assessment:
Television footage depicted the sheer force of the quake, particularly evident in Taiwan’s eastern city of Hualien, where buildings were shaken from their foundations. Hualien bore the brunt of the disaster, with over 26 buildings collapsing and approximately 20 individuals trapped beneath the rubble, sparking urgent rescue efforts. Additionally, reports indicate rockslides and landslides along Taiwan’s eastern coast.
Despite the widespread destruction, the Taipei city government reported no major damage within its jurisdiction. The Taipei City’s Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system resumed operations swiftly after the quake, with the country’s high-speed rail operator also confirming no harm to trains. However, delays are expected as thorough inspections are conducted to ensure passenger safety.
Conclusion:
The earthquake’s impact serves as a stark reminder of Taiwan’s vulnerability to seismic activity and underscores the importance of preparedness measures. As rescue operations continue and authorities assess the full extent of the damage, communities across the region remain on high alert amid ongoing tsunami warnings.